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Nutribun in Cordillera uses locally sourced ingredients

Nutribun uses locally sourced ingredients like wheat flour, squash, carrots, sweet potatoes, and root crops. (Photo by Jiselle Anne Casucian) In the Cordilleras, nutribun, the vitamin-packed bread distributed by the government, is made from locally sourced ingredients purchased directly from Filipino farmers, according to the Department of Science and Technology – Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI). During a site visit at manufacturer Northland Foods Incorporated, operations manager Donna Aldana explained that they produce nutribuns, nutribunnets, and nutricookies for Cordillera and other nearby areas in partnership with the DOST-FNRI since 2022. Using locally sourced ingredients, they were able to make enhanced nutribuns with fortified wheat flour and healthy ingredients like squash, carrots, sweet potatoes, or root crops. Aldana shared that they can supply as many as 50,000 to 60,000 buns per day, and can extend up to 100,000 packs based on necessity. 'We supply mainly to the Department of Education, and to local government units and the Department of Social Welfare and Development for its feeding programs," she said. "With the disasters that have hit Cordillera, it's also a very good product that can easily reach the people who have been affected by our recent typhoons,' she shared. Each Nutribun is around 80 grams per bun, packed with 250 kilocalories, and lasts around eight to nine days. 'For kids who are the main beneficiaries of nutribun, it can be enough for one meal. So for indigents, for example, and our kids in the schools, it's an important supplement for their learning,' Aldana said. Outside Cordillera, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. noted that the license for the product has been distributed to various manufacturers nationwide. DOST has also signed agreements with San Miguel Food Corporation in 2024 to create pre-mixed ingredients for bakers and manufacturers. DOST-FNRI released its 'new variant' of the enhanced nutribun in 2021, placing a specific focus on aiding feeding programs and increasing demand for vegetables. In its 2021 version, the nutribun contained 500 kilocalories and provided 31% of energy, 59% of protein, 60% of iron, and 90% of vitamin A. —LDF, GMA Integrated News