WHO offers help in screening, training

To provide support and assistance to the PFA in medical screening, training and awareness initiatives

LAHORE:

A World Health Organisation (WHO) official, Dr Palitha Gunarathna Mahipala, has expressed concern about the increasing use of infant formula and its impact on the health of both mothers and children.

Heading a delegation that called on Punjab Food Authority (PFA) Director General Raja Jahangir Anwar on Monday, he said the WHO would provide all possible support and assistance to the PFA in medical screening, training and awareness initiatives. The WHO will also offer assistance in the training of officers and the formulation of international-style regulations.

The PFA is working on the pattern of international organisations to make safe food supply possible across Punjab, he added.

Both sides emphasised the need to improve laboratories and provide free training and medical screening for food handlers.

The PFA director general said a new and cost-effective testing system for food-borne diseases would be developed in Punjab. Additionally, the PFA will enhance the medical screening and training of food handlers and workers.

He said the ratio of trans-fatty acids will be reduced by utilising all available resources because it's a major cause of coronary heart disease.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 29^th, 2023.