Impact

Dr. Florentino Solon: Idea Man and Champion of Nutrition in the Philippines

Dr. Florentino Solon was a visionary leader in public health, widely recognized as an “idea man” and a “champion of nutrition” in the Philippines. His groundbreaking work in food fortification and community-based nutrition programs reshaped the fight against malnutrition, leaving a lasting impact on national policies and public health initiatives. As the founding executive director of the Nutrition Center of the Philippines (NCP) and the Philippine Nutri-Foods Corporation (PNFC), his innovative solutions continue to benefit millions of Filipinos today.

Pioneering Food Fortification in the Philippines

Dr. Florentino Solon was instrumental in advancing food fortification, developing practical and scalable solutions to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Partnering with experts like Dr. Barry Popkin and Dr. Michael Latham, he conducted research proving the effectiveness of fortified margarine in addressing vitamin A deficiency. His advocacy led to key nutrition policies, including:

The Philippine Food Fortification Law, which mandates nutrient enrichment in staple foods.
The ASIN Law (Act for Salt Iodization Nationwide), ensuring iodine sufficiency across communities.
The Nutripan sa Eskwelahan project, which provided iron- and vitamin A-fortified pan de sal to school children, significantly reducing anemia.

Under his leadership, NCP and the Philippine Nutri-Foods Corporation also developed fortified food products like Nutri-Gro biscuits and Nutri-Noodles, widely distributed in feeding programs and disaster relief efforts.

Founding the Philippine Nutri-Foods Corporation

As an “idea man”, Dr. Florentino Solon understood the importance of sustainable nutrition solutions. In 1977, he helped establish the Philippine Nutri-Foods Corporation, dedicated to producing affordable and nutrient-enriched food for vulnerable populations. His work with the corporation focused on:

His innovative approach to nutrition transformed the way the Philippines addressed malnutrition, making food fortification a cornerstone of public health strategies.

A Champion of Nutrition and Public Health

Beyond food fortification, Dr. Florentino Solon spearheaded community-based nutrition programs, reinforcing his legacy as a “champion of nutrition.” His initiatives included:

His commitment to public service extended beyond nutrition—he served as mayor of Cebu City (1978–1983) and later as Deputy Minister of Health, advocating for stronger health policies. Recognized globally, he received the International Nutrition Award (2005) and was named one of the 100 Most Notable Cebuanos of the Century.

Dr. Florentino Solon’s visionary leadership, innovative mindset, and relentless dedication to food fortification, public health, and nutrition education continue to shape national policies and improve lives across the Philippines. Philippine Nutri-Foods continues to follow Dr. Solon’s vision by developing nutrient-rich food products that address malnutrition in the Philippines. Through food fortification, research-driven solutions, and innovative nutrition programs, the organization remains committed to improving public health and sustaining his lifelong mission of nourishing communities.

Philippine Nutri-foods and the Iconic Nutribun: A Legacy of Fighting Malnutrition in the Philippines

Manila, Philippines – The Nutribun is one of the most well-known nutrition initiatives in the Philippines, a lasting symbol of the country’s fight against malnutrition. While it became widely recognized through government-led feeding programs, its true legacy lies in the science of food fortification and the contributions of organizations like the Philippine Nutri-foods Corporation (PNFC).

The Science Behind Nutribun’s Development

The concept of food fortification—enhancing staple foods with essential nutrients—has been a global strategy against malnutrition for decades. In the Philippines, this approach gained momentum in the 1970s with the introduction of Nutribun, a scientifically formulated bread designed to provide critical nutrients to school children.

Nutribun was not an ordinary bread. It was developed through a collaborative effort involving Filipino food scientists, nutritionists, and international partners. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) provided initial technical guidance, but the local expertise of PNFC and the Nutrition Center of the Philippines (NCP) ensured that the formulation was tailored to meet the specific nutritional needs of Filipino children.

Unlike regular bread, Nutribun was fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, such as:

Iron – To prevent anemia and support cognitive development.
Vitamin A – To strengthen the immune system and promote eye health.
Calcium – To support bone growth and overall development.
Protein-enriched flour – To aid in muscle growth and repair.

Beyond its nutritional benefits, Nutribun was designed to be:

Shelf-stable – Ensuring it remained fresh for extended periods, even in areas with limited access to refrigeration.
Cost-effective – Made with locally available ingredients to keep production sustainable.
Easily distributable – A compact and durable food product that could be efficiently transported to schools and communities in need.

PNFC’s Role in Sustaining the Nutribun Legacy

PNFC played a crucial role in ensuring the continuous production and distribution of fortified foods like Nutribun. As a key player in the Philippine food industry, PNFC leveraged advancements in food technology to improve the formulation, taste, and accessibility of Nutribun over the years.

While the original Nutribun served as an emergency intervention for malnutrition, PNFC has contributed to its evolution by incorporating:

Unlike regular bread, Nutribun was fortified with essential vitamins and minerals, such as:

Higher fortification levels – Enhancing the bread’s vitamin and mineral content to address modern nutritional challenges.
Improved texture and flavor – Making it more appealing to children, increasing acceptance and regular consumption.
Locally sourced ingredients – Supporting Philippine agriculture while maintaining product affordability.
Innovative packaging and distribution methods – Extending the product’s shelf life and reach, especially in disaster-stricken or remote areas.

Through the years, Nutribun has remained a symbol of food security and public health intervention, thanks to the ongoing efforts of nutrition professionals, food industry leaders, and humanitarian organizations. The Philippine government, through the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI), developed the “Enhanced Nutribun,” which weighs between 160 to 165 grams per piece and contains 504 calories, 17.8 grams of protein, 6.08 milligrams of iron, and 244 micrograms of vitamin A. PNFC’s Nutribun, on the other hand, has a different formulation, focusing on micronutrient-rich fortification while being smaller at 80 grams per piece, making it easier for children to consume in one sitting. Additionally, PNFC’s Nutribun is paired with Enov’Nutributter, a nutrient-dense peanut and milk-flavored paste designed to further aid in weight gain and combat malnutrition.

A Lasting Commitment to Nutrition

PNFC, alongside other key players in the food and nutrition sector, remains dedicated to the mission of making nutrition accessible for all Filipinos. While Nutribun is only one of many solutions, its enduring impact is a testament to what can be achieved when science, public health, and community-driven initiatives come together.

As the fight against malnutrition and food insecurity continues, Nutribun stands as a reminder that effective, sustainable solutions are built through collaboration—not by any single entity, but by the collective efforts of experts, institutions, and advocates committed to improving lives.

NutriStores: Bringing Better Nutrition Closer to Families in Visayas and Mindanao

Good nutrition is the foundation of a healthy and productive life. However, access to affordable and high-quality nutritional products remains a challenge, especially in rural areas. To address this gap, Philippine NutriFoods Corporation (PNFC) is set to launch NutriStores—a pioneering initiative that will bring essential nutrition products closer to communities in Visayas and Mindanao (VisMin).

By strategically establishing NutriStores in key locations, PNFC aims to create a sustainable and accessible hub for families, pregnant women, and young children to obtain much-needed Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) and other nutritional products at fair prices.

Why NutriStores Matter

The VisMin region is home to diverse communities, many of which face barriers to proper nutrition due to geographic limitations, economic constraints, and limited awareness of maternal and child health. Through NutriStores, PNFC seeks to:

Increase accessibility – NutriStores will be placed in high-need areas where access to quality nutrition is limited.
Promote maternal and child health – With a focus on MMS for pregnant and lactating mothers, the initiative supports healthier pregnancies and early childhood development.
Strengthen partnerships – By collaborating with local government units (LGUs), community health workers, and retail partners, NutriStores will ensure long-term impact.
Educate and empower communities – Alongside product availability, NutriStores will serve as an avenue for nutrition education, cooking demonstrations, and community engagement.

Bayanihan for Better Nutrition

This initiative is part of PNFC’s broader campaign, “Bayanihan for Better Nutrition,” which champions collective action to improve the country’s nutritional landscape. Inspired by PNFC’s vision of a well-nourished and healthy Filipino population, NutriStores embody the spirit of bayanihan—working together to ensure that no mother or child is left behind in the fight against malnutrition.

Expanding Reach Through Local Partnerships

PNFC will work closely with LGUs, community-based organizations, and local retailers to set up and sustain NutriStores. By leveraging existing networks, PNFC can streamline product distribution and integrate NutriStores into ongoing public health programs.

What’s Next?

The first NutriStores are expected to launch in select areas of Visayas and Mindanao by 2025. As the program expands, PNFC envisions NutriStores becoming a go-to hub for affordable and reliable nutrition solutions for Filipino families nationwide.

Join the Movement!

Be part of the movement towards better nutrition in Visayas, Mindanao, and beyond. Through CSR initiatives, medical missions, feeding programs, and community partnerships, we can work together to improve access to essential nutrition for mothers, children, and families. Let’s collaborate to create meaningful, lasting change—one community at a time.

If you’re interested in partnering with us, send us an email at pnfcinfo@nutrifoods.com.ph or message us on Facebook Messenger. We’d love to explore how we can work together for better nutrition!

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