Regulatory Monitoring Systems of Fortified Salt and Wheat Flour in Selected ASEAN Countries.

ABSTRACT

Objectives: An increasing number of countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are adopting or in the process to adopt mandatory food fortification to overcome vitamin and mineral deficiencies. The objective of this study was to review regulatory monitoring systems for iodized salt and fortified wheat flour in selected ASEAN countries. Methods: Regulatory monitoring includes monitoring activities at production level, customs warehouses, and retail stores by regulatory authorities. Producers also monitor during production as part of quality control and assurance. We reviewed regulatory monitoring systems through desk reviews in Philippines, Indonesia, Cambodia, Viet Nam and Malaysia and through interviews with stakeholders in the Philippines and Indonesia. Results: Challenges in regulatory monitoring systems include inefficient and ineffective government monitoring, lack of legal definitions of roles and responsibilities of agencies and industry, and a focus on end-product testing rather than process control and internal quality assurance systems. Conclusions: Without appropriate enforcement and quality assurance mechanisms, i.e., regulatory monitoring, to create a safe and fair environment for food fortification, national legislation will not necessarily lead to high coverage of fortified products and associated health outcomes.