Ethiopia to enforce mandatory fortification of edible oils, flour to combat micronutrient deficiencies

ETHIOPIA – The Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA) has drafted a new guideline requiring edible oil and flour manufacturers to fortify their products with essential vitamins and minerals, and register them with the authority.

The guidelines aim to address micronutrient deficiencies in the population and ensure that essential nutrients are incorporated into staple food products in Ethiopia.

Studies indicate that two out of every three women in the country are deficient in one or more micronutrients. Additionally, the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency was estimated at 28% in 2017, positioning Ethiopia among the countries with the highest rates globally. ​

To ensure the practicality and effectiveness of these regulations, the EFDA hosted a stakeholder discussion forum in Adama, inviting key industry representatives to provide feedback.

During the forum, Negash Sime, Deputy Director General of EFDA’s Food Sector, emphasized the crucial role of micronutrients in public health.

“Micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in growth, immune function, and digestion. Through these guidelines, we aim to ensure that essential nutrients are incorporated into staple food products, benefiting millions of consumers,”​he stated.

The draft registration guidelines were presented by Ato Mengistu Asfaw, EFDA’s Lead Executive Officer for Food Registration and Licensing.

The session included comprehensive discussions, during which stakeholders shared insights and sought clarifications on key aspects of the guidelines. EFDA officials, including Mulatu Tesfaye (Food Inspection and Enforcement LEO), Mengistu Asfaw, and Wondafrash Abera (Technical Advisor), addressed concerns and responded to questions.​

This initiative aligns with Ethiopia’s broader efforts to enhance food safety, quality, and nutritional standards. In June 2022, the Ethiopian Standard Council endorsed the mandatory fortification of edible oil and wheat flour, a decision lauded by officials for its potential to save millions of lives and prevent the country’s high burden of neural tube defects (NTDs).

However, the implementation of mandatory fortification raised concerns among industries about potential increases in the prices of wheat flour and edible oil, with induries warning that the new rule could lead to higher costs for consumers. .

Despite these challenges, the Ethiopian government remains committed to addressing malnutrition and improving public health through food fortification. EFDA continues to engage with stakeholders and the public to refine the guidelines, reinforcing its commitment to improving food safety, quality, and nutritional standards nationwide.

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