KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato (PIA) -- A new and improved version of “Nutribun,” a project first introduced in the 1970s is back under the dietary supplementation program of the government for learners in Region 12.

Regional Nutrition Program Coordinator Retsebeth Laquihon of the National Nutrition Council 12 said the enhanced nutribun (e-nutribun) is already being supplied in various feeding programs implemented by the Department of Education.

According to Laquihon, at least 5 nutribun adaptors in the region were already trained and certified by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI).

“Nutribun itself is very rich in nutrients kasi yung nutribun na pinoproduce ngayon through the technology of FNRI is enriched and merong iba’t-ibang flavors. Mayaman sa vitamins and minerals. Very effective po ito na tool for feeding program,” Laquihon said.

The ‘e-nutribun’ technology reformulated by the DOST and FNRI is rich in protein, with enhanced micro-nutrients, iron, and Vitamin A.

The ready-to-eat bread weighs approximately 160 grams and provides 32 percent calories, 59 percent protein, 60 percent iron, and 60 percent of Vitamin A of the required energy and nutrient intake (REN) for children, according to DOST data.

Laquihon said they are also looking at the potential of re-introducing ‘e-nutribun’ in feeding programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and local government units.

“Para po sa ating LGUs, pwede po ninyong matulungan ang ating mga adaptors kung meron kayong feeding program, you may coordinate with us para ma-link po namin kayo,” the official said.

The certified ‘e-nutribun’ adaptors in the region are the following: KCC Shopping Center – Baker’s Square in Koronadal City, South Cotabato; Enriquez & Coroza Foods Corporation in General Santos City; Kambal Bakeshop, Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat; and M’lang Breadmaster Bakeshoppe in M’lang and Breadcart Bakeshop in Kidapawan City, both in Cotabato Province. (ORVR)