Food Commission reviews nutrition supplies in Attappady

The State Food Commission has directed officials to ensure the quality of nutrition supplies distributed at anganwadis and schools in Attappady. A team led by Commission chairperson Jinu Zacharia Oommen and member Murukesh Cherunali inspected anganwadis in Donigundu, Vadakottathara and Vechappathy hamlets, and the tribal high school at Mattathukad in Attappady on Wednesday.

The inspection followed reports of infant deaths in Attappady, suspected to be linked to malnutrition. The commission sought an explanation after finding packets of pulses and chickpeas at anganwadis without expiry dates.

The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) district programme officer said wheat supplies to anganwadis had declined because wheat meeting fair average quality (FAQ) standards was unavailable.

The Commission said nutrition supplies were being distributed to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and children in areas where child deaths had been reported. It added that the families of the deceased children had also received the supplies.

The Janani Janma Raksha scheme was being implemented as prescribed, it said. The Commission also checked the mid-day meal programme at the school.

District Supply Officer A.S. Beena, Taluk Supply Officer V. Manoj, Mannarkkad Taluk Supply Officer M.K. Anees, Assistant Taluk Supply Officer Ranjini, ICDS District Programme Officer T.V. Minimol, Child Protection Officer Sreelatha and other officials were also present.