THE Department of Science and Technology – Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) released the 2023 National Nutrition Survey results, showing progress and challenges.

A LOOK AT HEALTH The 2023 National Nutrition Survey results aim to provide science-based, inclusive solutions under DOST’s pillars: human well-being, wealth creation, wealth protection, and sustainability. IMAGE FROM DOST-FNRI
Most Filipino households still buy food from sari-sari stores and wet markets, with supermarkets and online sellers secondary due to costs. About two in five also source food from farms, rivers, or the sea. Rising prices lead many to spend P100-500 per trip at traditional markets, while groceries cost over P1,000.
Rice makes up 35.7 percent of daily food intake and 58 percent of total energy. More households met energy, protein, iron, niacin, and riboflavin needs compared to 2018-2019. Poorer families rely more on rice, while wealthier households consume more fish, meat, and poultry. Unfortunately, food waste rose — households threw out 53 grams more daily compared to 2018-2019. Rural areas wasted more rice, corn, and vegetables.
Many Filipinos fall short of energy and nutrient needs, with iron, calcium, vitamins A and C lacking. Breastfeeding rates dropped, though complementary feeding improved. Only 13.9 percent of children got a minimum acceptable diet.
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Over half of pregnant women didn’t meet energy needs. Awareness of iodized salt is high, but usage lags; only 34.9 percent use adequately iodized salt.
Mental health struggles also surfaced. Older teens and both the poorest and richest are at risk. About 20 percent of adults aged 20-59 are prediabetic, and 7.5 percent have very high blood sugar.
High cholesterol affects older adults; younger adults have higher triglycerides. Still, fewer had abnormal lipid levels compared before.
DOST-FNRI urges healthier diets, stronger food policies, and collaboration across sectors to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Visit www.fnri.dost.gov.ph for details.