Dietitians eye teaming up with food industry

AN organization of nutritionists and dietitians in the Philippines has proposed a public-private partnership (PPP) between the nutrition community and the food and beverage industry in the country to help address malnutrition and health-sensitive issues facing Filipinos. Cristina Sison, president of the Philippine Society of Nutritionist-Dietitians Inc. (PSND), has revealed a groundbreaking white paper titled "Public-Private Partnership with Food and Beverage Industry for Healthier Filipinos" during a roundtable discussion with the local media. The paper aims to highlight ways in which collaborations between these two sectors can address the country's critical nutrition issues and contribute to achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Prepared by the PSND, the white paper emphasizes that partnerships with the food industry — while historically controversial — hold immense potential to address the nutritional needs of Filipinos. Sison said this is particularly relevant given the food industry's significant role in shaping dietary habits and providing food during emergencies. However, she pointed out that the paper also underscores the ethical implications and potential challenges of these partnerships, especially regarding companies perceived to produce unhealthy or "junk food." "Engagement with the business sector is critical for tackling food security, hunger and nutrition issues. The food and beverage industry holds a unique influence over Filipino eating habits, and when managed effectively, these partnerships can create meaningful progress in improving public health," said Sison. The paper outlines three key types of partnerships between the nutrition community and the food and beverage industry: philanthropic partnerships focus on limited engagements, such as financial donations and food aid; transactional partnerships involve mutual exchanges of resources to advance shared goals; and transformational partnerships are long-term collaborations aimed at deeply influencing institutional practices and policies on both sides. Sison noted that the food industry's importance in the Philippines is undeniable, especially for marginalized communities. However, there are concerns over the nutritional quality of some products, especially those that are highly processed, she pointed out. The PSND paper recognizes that while processed foods are often more affordable and accessible, they sometimes lack essential nutritional value. On the flip side, the food industry also plays a critical role in programs such as food fortification and emergency food supply during disasters. In addition, multinational companies have already demonstrated their ability to support public health initiatives, such as reformulating products to reduce sugar and salt content, as well as eliminating harmful trans fats. Despite the potential benefits of public-private partnerships, Sison's white paper does not shy away from addressing the challenges that arise in these collaborations. Key issues include perceived conflicts of interest between the two sectors, especially when companies sell products high in sugar or fat. Also, policy implementation challenges and a lack of trust among stakeholders can hinder collaboration efforts. The paper also points out the challenges faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in participating in nutrition programs, as well as a general reluctance from some businesses to engage in socially-oriented health programs. In conclusion, the white paper proposes several recommendations to guide future partnerships. These include educating potential participants on best practices for collaboration; focusing on shared goals, such as improving food security, rather than on brand promotion; encouraging the food industry to contribute to sustainable food system initiatives; and strengthening the role of professional organizations in ensuring that industry practices align with public health goals. "By aligning industry efforts with public health goals, we can tackle some of the most pressing nutritional issues our nation faces today. This white paper is just the beginning of a much-needed dialogue on how we can collaborate for the common good," said Sison.