As part of the 51st Nutrition Month celebration, the Department of Health – Central Luzon Center for Health Development (DOH-CLCHD) is encouraging the public to make smarter food choices to achieve food and nutrition security.

With the theme “Food and Nutrition Security, Maging Priority! Sapat na Pagkain, Karapatan Natin!”, the campaign emphasizes not just having enough food, but ensuring it’s safe, nutritious, and affordable.

DOH-CLCHD Nutrition Program Officer Sheena Polinar explained that food security is about having access to sufficient food, while nutrition security focuses on the quality of food that promotes health.

Polinar urged consumers to learn how to read food labels and ingredient lists before purchasing, noting that labels are required to show nutrition facts, serving sizes, and recommended nutrient intake based on Administrative Order 2014-0030.

“Ingredients are listed by weight—the first few listed make up most of the product, so always check what you’re really getting,” she said.

In an age of highly processed and fast foods, Polinar stressed that informed choices help prevent diet-related illnesses and promote long-term well-being.

Smart food choices today, she added, pave the way for a healthier future. (PIA Region 3-Tarlac)