Minister of Health Ahmed Naseem has revealed plans to undertake a food regulatory programme in the Maldives, under the supervision of Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA).
Speaking to PSM News, Health Minister Naseem said the focus of the health sector should not be solely on cure and treatment, noting prevention of diseases should also be as important. As such, the minister said food consumption is a vital component of public health, and needs to be prioritised to ensure a healthy population.
Speaking in this regard, the minister revealed plans to launch a food regulatory programme under Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) next year. He said the programme will involve monitoring of food imported or produced in the Maldives, and spread public awareness on food safety. He said MFDA will also undergo major changes to ensure the effective implementation of food regulatory policies.
In addition to MFDA, Ministry of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture has also been undertaking efforts to regulate food in the Maldives. As such, the ministry has conducted several programmes for local farmers over the years, to create awareness on producing food with minimal use of fertilisers.