A Food Fortification Summit was conducted in the presence of Commissioner, National Health Mission, at Minerva Grand Hotel, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. The program was jointly organized by the Office of Commissioner of Food Safety, KHPT and GAIN (Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition), to take forward the food fortification strategy to address the prevalent micronutrient deficiencies in Andhra Pradesh.

Dr. Karthikeya Mishra, Commissioner, NHM, inaugurated the conclave by lighting the lamp accompanied by Dr. P. Manjari, Director, IPM, Dr. K.N. Swaroop, Joint Food Controller, Dr. Arijit Chakrabarty, GAIN, and Mr. Ramachandra Rao, Director, KHPT. The program was attended by more than 150 participants including Food Safety, KHPT and GAIN officials along with edible oil, milk, rice and wheat flour industries.

The Commissioner stated the importance of micronutrients and the disorders caused as a result of micronutrient deficiencies, and highlighted that micronutrient deficiencies have become more prevalent as a result of lifestyle change. Since past one year, the Commissioner, Food Safety, has initiated implementation of Food Fortification in the state with support from KHPT and GAIN. Nearly 67% of the total oil produced in the state for retail purpose is now being fortified.