Institute of Nutrition Mahidol University with the company Friesland Campina (Thailand) Public Company Limited reveals the results of an in-depth survey of nutrition in children from the SEANUTS II project by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chalat Santivarangkana, Director of the Institute of Nutrition. Mahidol University said, “Food security and good nutrition Affects the quality of life of the population in the country which is an important resource that will drive other developments
As an agency that oversees the strength of food and nutrition of the nation Therefore, we recognize the importance of conducting surveys under the SEANUTS (South East Asian Nutrition Surveys) project to gain insights. which is a factor affecting the nutritional status of children in the ASEAN region including Thailand whether food consumption or behavior-life of children related to health This survey (2019 – 2021) is the second survey. After being carried out for the first time in 2010-2011, the latest survey in There is the situation of the epidemic of Covid-19 as an additional factor of interest.”
On the side of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nipa Rojrungwasinkul Advisor to the Institute of Nutrition Mahidol University and head of SEANUTS II Thailand, said, “Child malnutrition remains a major problem in many countries around the world. including Thailand The health issues of Thai children that are still of concern include being overweight and obese. It is found in children aged 7-12 years. More than 30% of children under 1 year experience anemia as high as 50%. Unbalanced food intake and daily energy-nutrient intake. including a 32% reduction in outdoor activities
Meanwhile, Dr. Oran Chowiwattana, Director of Corporate Relations, Friesland Campina (Thailand) Public Company Limited, said of the survey findings, “There are many interesting parts from the SEANUTS II survey. interested Even the overall situation Both in the consumption of breakfast or malnutrition, lacking characteristics (Stunting) Thailand will be at a better level than other countries in ASEAN. But there are still many areas that we can improve, such as insufficient intake of calcium, despite the fact that Thai children drink milk regularly. As we know that The recommended milk intake for children is 2-3 cups/day, so even if your child drinks more than 4 cups/week, this may not be enough. And this also forces producers to look back on the quality and nutrients of milk. When milk is the main food that children eat. While the overall picture of ASEAN, malnutrition (all aspects) is still a big problem shared in every country.
Both agencies aim to disseminate the knowledge to parents and the general public, along with forwarding important information to relevant agencies to formulate essential health and nutrition promotion plans. Including the development of products that meet the health needs of children in the future to solve the problem of integrated nutrition of Thai children