A food safety sensitisation programme was conducted at the village council level in four villages under Peren district, namely Ahthibung, Samziuram, Mhainamtsi, and Heningkunglwa, on May 14 and 15 under the flagship “Eat Right India” movement.
The programme aimed to strengthen community awareness on health, nutrition, and food safety while bridging the gap between national health goals and grassroots implementation.
During the programme, Sukumlo Yanthan, Food Safety Officer, Dimapur, spoke on food fortification and explained how staple food items such as rice, wheat, milk, and edible oil are enriched with essential vitamins and minerals. Participants were also educated on the harmful effects of trans fats.
The session further highlighted the importance of reducing the consumption of salt, sugar, and oil as part of a three-pronged health strategy.
In another session, Zuthungbemo K Ngullie, Food Technician, emphasised the importance of reading food labels and clarified misconceptions regarding medically recommended Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and commercially marketed ORSL drinks.
The technical session also discussed the dangers associated with the repeated use of cooking oil, explaining that the buildup of total polar compounds (TCP) can lead to serious health complications. Concerns were also raised about the high sugar content in carbonated beverages and its possible link to the increasing incidence of Type 2 diabetes among children.
The programme concluded with hands-on demonstrations to detect common adulterants in everyday food items.
The event witnessed active participation from village council members, ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers, Self Help Groups (SHGs), & church leaders.
