ISLAMABAD( WNAM REPORT ): A consultation session on food fortification with key stakeholders was held on Tuesday at the Parliament House, Islamabad. The session was organised by the National Parliamentary Task force on SDGs of the National Assembly of Pakistan in collaboration with Nutrition International.
The session was chaired by Ms. Shaista Pervaiz Malik, Convener of the National Parliamentary Taskforce on SDGs. The consultation brought together key stakeholders. The consultation formed part of the Taskforce’s ongoing advocacy efforts to promote evidence-based nutrition policies and strengthen multi-sectoral collaboration for effective food fortification.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Shaista Pervaiz Malik highlighted that Pakistan continues to face high rates of malnutrition and micro nutrient deficiencies, particularly among women and children. She underscored that food fortification of staple items such as wheat flour, edible oil, and salt with essential vitamins and minerals is a proven, cost-effective intervention that can reach the majority of the population.
The initiative was in line with Pakistan’s international development commitments specifically with SDG 2 – Ending hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture – emphasising that effective food fortification is integral to achieving this global commitment. The Convener further noted that ensuring nutrition security is not only a public health imperative but also a foundation for economic productivity and sustainable development.
Nutrition International gave a detailed presentation to the parliamentarians, while industry representatives discussed operational challenges such as machinery upgrades, quality control mechanisms, and premix procurement. The Convener stated that the incremental cost per 20-kg flour bag is minimal, framing fortification as a high-impact investment in national health and human capital.
Members of Parliament reaffirmed their commitment to bridging the gap between legislation and implementation. They emphasised that effective enforcement, coupled with public awareness and behaviour change communication, is key to achieving lasting results. The participants agreed that public confidence and understanding must be strengthened through transparent communication, engaging religious scholars, and partnering with community leaders to ensure that food fortification is widely recognised as a health and development initiative.
Parliamentarians further observed that public engagement in Islamabad may differ from that in rural areas, and that localised strategies will be key to nationwide success.
