FNRI whips up rootcrops and corn recipes to boast energy of the Pinoy family

The Seventh National Nutrition Survey (NNS) conducted by the Food and Nutrition
Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST)
revealed that 7 out of 10 households were energy deficient.

In terms of food consumption, results also indicated that there was a decrease in
the average food intake among households from 886 grams in 2003 to 861 grams
in 2008.

The composition of the Filipino diet weighing 861 grams was found as the typical
rice-fish-vegetable combination. The bulk of the household diet is mainly cereals
and cereal products, weighing 361 grams. Moreover, there was a decreasing trend
in the consumption of starchy roots and tubers from 19 grams in 2003 to 17 grams
in 2008, the survey further revealed.
To address the problem revealed by the survey, the FNRI-DOST developed
nutritious and acceptable recipes utilizing rootcrops and corn. These are aimed
toward meeting the energy needs of the Filipino family and to promote their
consumption.

Rootcrops are grown in the Philippines chiefly for human food and these are good
sources of carbohydrates. Kamote, taro, yam, potatoes, cassava, among others are
examples of rootcrops that are available and abundant thoughout the year.

Corn is the second staple food of Filipinos. Depending on the variety, corn is loaded
with vitamins and minerals. It is also associated with many health benefits aside
from being nutritious. White corn is considered as a low glycemic index (GI) food.
Low GI food is good for the proper control and management of diabetes mellitus
because it delays hunger pangs and promotes weight loss in overweight people.