TAGUIG CITY, Philippinse (DOST) -- Various micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Palawan engaged in bread production and water refilling businesses took part in the virtual Techno Fair: DOST-FNRI Series held by DOST-Mimaropa in collaboration with the DOST-Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) held last June 24 via zoom.
The virtual technology fair aims to promote DOST-FNRIs available technologies for adoption— the Enhanced Nutribun with squash and carrot and the Tubig Talino technology. The Enhanced Nutribun is an improved and reformulated version of the Nutribun distributed during the ‘70s that contains more micronutrients necessary to meet the nutrient requirements for children. On the other hand, Tubig Talino is iodine-rich drinking water that is promoted to be consumed to improve the iodine intake of Filipinos.
A total of 17 participants mostly from the industry and local government units (LGUs) participated in the virtual fair and learned about the health and nutrition benefits and business opportunities these technologies could bring, as well as the protocols involved in the technology transfer. Topics including nutritional benefits, efficacy, and competitive advantages of the technologies were discussed.
DOST-Mimaropa Regional Director, Dr. Ma Josefina P. Abilay emphasized in her opening remarks the need for innovation to combat and eradicate malnutrition. She also mentioned how science and technology could transform necessities such as food and water into forms that have much-improved nutritional and functional properties and provide people a chance to lead a better, healthier, and more meaningful life.
Most of the participants showed interest in adopting the technology and were advised by resource persons from DOST-FNRI to submit documentary requirements including a letter of intent to proceed with the application and technology transfer.
Previous adopters of the Enhanced Nutribun technology, St. Ives Bakeshop, and Adventist Health Products also showed support for the activity.
After adopting the Enhanced Nutribun, Adventist Health Products was also encouraged to adopt the Tubig Talino technology. As part of the next technology needs assessment (TNA) and a site visit will be conducted at the facility of the firm this July 2021 in preparation for the application for Tubig Talino technology transfer.
Provincial Science and Technology Director (PSTD) of Palawan, Engr. Pacifico Sariego T. III closed the event by expressing his gratitude to participants for a fruitful activity. (PR)
