Cebu City - The Regional Bantay Asin Task Force 7 (RBATF 7) is enjoining all provinces, cities, and municipalities in the region to consider procuring their own WYD iodine checker to ensure that Saktong Iodine sa Asin is available to all their consuming public. The recommendation came about because during the RBATF 7’s salt monitoring held very recently, it has been observed that almost all local governments in Central Visayas doesn’t have WYD Iodine checker to monitor the iodine content of salt distributed in their markets and stores. This is necessary to ensure that the standard level of 30-70 parts per million is followed. It will be easier for LGUs to conduct inspection of establishments and stores once WYD iodine checker is available.
WYD iodine checker is a machine specifically created to measure the quantity of iodine content based on a colorimetric method. It is highly precise and accurate tool in measuring salt content to determine if the salt distributed comply with the standard as embodied in RA 8172 or the Act Promoting Salt Iodization Nationwide (ASIN) Law.
DOST 7, an active member of the Regional Bantay Asin Task Force 7 regularly tests the salt samples collected by members during the conduct of the task force semestral monitoring of the Salt Iodization Program. Ensuring that standard ppm content of iodine is significant as part of assessing the effectiveness of the program.
Using and selling of ONLY iodized salt is recommended to reduce the risk of iodine deficiency disorders (IDD), as stated in the law. However, it seems that many people aren’t aware of the importance of National Salt Iodization Program and how it will prevent IDD.
According to RBATF 7 Chair and member faculty of Nutrition and Dietetics Department of the University of San Carlos, Ms. Girlie Vera Cruz-Libato, local governments must seriously implement the ASIN Law starting with the procurement of iodine checker for continuity of its salt monitoring. Sanitary inspectors and nutrition officers must work hand in hand to achieve the goal in reducing IDD. Libato added that LGUs must ensure that manufacturers and salt producers follow the standard iodine content and have their own WYD iodine checker for easy monitoring and compliance of this law. // PNFP Mary Bliss Joy P. Iguana, RND
