Punjab drafts Food Fortification Bill 2026: Fortification of flour, ghee, oil mandatory to address malnutrition

The Punjab government has drafted a new Food Fortification Bill for 2026, with the aim of combating malnutrition and stunting in children and nutrient deficiencies in women, said Provincial Minister for Food Safety and Consumer Protection, Salma Butt. Speaking at a meeting chaired by herself, Butt revealed that the legislation was prepared based on instructions from Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.

According to Butt, 27.3% of children under five in Punjab currently experience stunted growth. However, this figure has decreased from 31.5% in 2017 to the current 27.3% in 2024, thanks to government initiatives. The minister also highlighted alarming iron and zinc deficiencies among women aged 15 to 49, which led to the introduction of the proposed bill.

Under the draft law, fortification of flour, ghee, cooking oil, and salt will be obligatory. Those who fail to register in breach of the Food Authority Act could face up to three months in prison and a fine of up to Rs1 million. Additionally, obstructing food safety officers or failing to comply with fortification requirements could result in up to six months in prison and a fine of up to Rs2 million.

To ensure proper implementation, Butt emphasized the importance of daily internal checks, rapid testing, and quality assurance for all manufacturers and importers. She further stated that strict laboratory testing and production checks would be introduced to maintain the quality of micronutrient premixes used in food production.

Salma Butt urged all relevant organizations to cooperate fully with food safety officers and provide accurate information, emphasizing that it is a legal obligation to maintain a healthy Punjab.