LAHORE:Punjab University (PU) Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali has said that in order to stay healthy and energetic, it is essential to consume a nutritious diet and make exercise a regular habit.
He was addressing an awareness seminar on ‘Large Scale Food Fortification Programme’ organised by the Department of Food Sciences at Punjab University in collaboration with Nutrition International at Al-Raazi Hall here Tuesday.
He emphasised that universities must play a key role in developing sustainable food strategies and strengthening institutional partnerships. Prof Dr M Ali said Pakistan is an agricultural country, yet fruits and vegetables were sold at high prices in the market. Prof Dr Shinawar Waseem Ali said that 40 percent of people in Pakistan suffer from iron deficiency, which is a matter of serious concern.
He added that fortification of staple foods such as flour and edible oil is extremely important in improving public health outcomes, particularly for women and children. Dr Muhammad Nasir said that food and nutrition testing is also essential, and in the past there was no proper mechanism to assess it.
