Nutrition council recommends increasing P64 intake to ensure a healthy diet with three meals a day

In a recent statement, the National Nutrition Council (NNC) highlighted the importance of adequate food intake for maintaining a healthy body. According to NNC Cordillera Administrative Region nutrition program coordinator Bella Basalong, spending just a little over P64 on daily food intake, which amounts to approximately above P21.30 for each meal, is insufficient to meet the recommended energy and nutrient requirements for the body.

Basalong emphasized that a budget of P20 per meal may only serve to fill hunger, primarily with carbohydrates, but falls short of providing the necessary energy and nutrients for overall health. Such a diet, if sustained over an extended period, can result in illness and suboptimal performance.

The discussion was prompted by a report from National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, who stated that as of 2023, the monthly food threshold for a family of five is P9,581, equivalent to around P64 per person per day. Balisacan indicated that an individual spending slightly more than this amount is no longer classified as „food poor.“

Basalong challenged the validity of NEDA’s current threshold, citing the impact of high inflation rates on food prices. She argued that P64 could only cover the cost of one meal in today’s economic climate, rendering the existing threshold outdated.

Moreover, Basalong pointed out that while NEDA’s choice of food basket may be appropriate, the failure to adjust prices in line with inflation has skewed the calculations. In light of these concerns, senators have urged NEDA to review and update its threshold to ensure the accuracy of poverty forecasts.

Balisacan has acknowledged the need for a reassessment, indicating that the revision of the food basket will take into account factors such as food preferences and relative prices of goods. By addressing these considerations, NEDA aims to provide a more precise depiction of poverty levels and guide policy decisions accordingly.

Overall, the exchange between the NNC and NEDA underscores the critical role of nutrition in promoting overall well-being and highlights the importance of considering economic factors when setting food thresholds. As discussions continue, it is crucial to prioritize access to adequate and nutritious food for all individuals, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of a healthy and fulfilling life.