The publication and public announcement of Malawi’s Gazette means that fortification standards are mandatory for wheat and maize flour, cooking oil, and sugar throughout the country. Bureau of Standard and Ministry of Health inspectors must now enforce compliance among industry and importers. A formal announcement to industry from the Bureau of Standards is in process informing them of this new development.
The fortification standards are in line with national consumption patterns and harmonized with the ECSA region to prevent disruption to trade and ensure maximum impact for the Malawian people, especially women and children who are affected most by micronutrient malnutrition.
Over the next several months, PHC will work closely with the National Fortification Alliance to ensure inspectors adhere to the national sampling plan, samples are tested on a quarterly basis, results are reported back to all stakeholders using Malawi’s Fortification Monitoring Tool, and industry are provided with any further technical assistance to ensure they meet the new requirements.