Peru's Agriculture and Irrigation Minister Jose Manuel Hernandez announced the Government will launch an anemia control program aimed at children on October 18.
Speaking at a
World Food Day event at Agriculture and Irrigation Ministry (Minagri) headquarters, Hernandez said the initiative constitutes a collaborative effort involving various sectors.
Minagri will run a campaign to promote consumption of native, high-protein foods such as
quinoa,
tarwi, Kiwicha,
potatoes and legumes, among others.
In fact, all necessary actions will be taken to combat anemia, which affects 43 out of every 100 children aged 0-3 across the country.
"In rural areas, the number increases to 51 out of 100, which makes us engage in a comprehensive approach to address poor regions," the minister underlined.
"Certainly, potatoes must be included in the diet, since they ended famine in Europe, due to their high iron content to tackle malnutrition," Hernandez was quoted as saying.
Additionally, Minagri plans to promote consumption of guinea pig meat, which is high in proteins and able to combat obesity and malnutrition at the same time.
(END) MDV/JJN/RMB
Published: 10/16/2017