Cebu City – As part of strengthening further the implementation and monitoring of RA 8172 “An Act Promoting Salt Iodization Nationwide” also known as the ASIN Law, the Regional Bantay Asin Task Force conducted a salt monitoring in the two salt producers in Central Visayas and select households, bakeries, and sari-sari store in Mandaue City. The team was composed of the members of the task force including DOST 7, FDA 7, DOH 7 and NDAP Cebu Chapter. Sanitary Inspectors and Nutrition Officers from Mandaue and Cebu City also joined the said monitoring.

The RBATF 7 team then collected salt samples in the two salt producers, the Arvin International and Bohol Lirio Inc. both located in Mandaue City. Salt samples were also collected in select bakeries, sari-sari stores, and households wherein the team also conducted an evaluation of the implementation of ASIN Law in the area thru a checklist-guided interview. The salt samples were all handed in the DOST Office for testing if it contains the standard amount of iodine. Results of the salt testing will be shared to local governments where the salt samples were taken for action and to the members of the task force for information. 

The monitoring team strongly recommended that standard amount of iodine be complied by the salt producers in accordance with requirements of the law. The local governments must also ensure to implement activities that promotes the consumption of iodized salt as well as ensure the health and nutrition status of target population especially pregnant women.

Consumption of iodized salt is one of the easiest ways to get enough iodine and prevent iodine deficiency disorders. Use ONLY “Asin with Iodine” and look for the Saktong Iodine sa Asin or the SISA seal of the FDA and DOH. // PNFP Mary Bliss Joy P. Iguana, RND