Abu Dhabi Council Approves Early Childhood Nutrition Guideline

Photo : Abu Dhabi Media Office

The Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council (ADQCC) convened the second quarter 2024 meeting of the Abu Dhabi Standard Technical Committee, bringing together 37 members from 25 government entities. The session was presided over by His Excellency Brigadier Jassim Al Harmoudi, the First Vice Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Standard Technical Committee.

A key focus of the meeting was the discussion of various pivotal documents, prominently featuring the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Nutrition Guideline. This guide was meticulously prepared by the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ADECA) in collaboration with several vital stakeholders, including the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the Department of Community Development (DCD), the Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPC), and the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU).

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The guidebook is designed to serve as a comprehensive reference framework for stakeholders, policymakers, and food programs. It integrates the latest research on modern functional nutrition principles, food behaviors, eating disorders, and the gut microbiome. Additionally, it supports various related projects by ensuring the health and safety of food service recipients through a unified set of guidelines.

ADECA underscored the guidebook's importance in combating childhood obesity within the emirate by providing a cohesive reference for stakeholders to ensure the availability of healthy food options for children. His Excellency Brigadier Jassim Al Harmoudi stated, "The outcomes of the Technical Standard Committee’s work align with the Council's vision to enhance the quality infrastructure and help Abu Dhabi achieve global excellence."

He further highlighted that the council collaborates with both government and private sector partners to develop technical and professional standards across various sectors, ensuring quality and conformity in all activities and industries.

Fatima Al Melhi, the Acting Director of the Special Projects Department at ADECA, reiterated the authority's commitment to working with diverse partners to promote public health and proper nutrition for children in Abu Dhabi. She emphasized the development of policies, services, and programs that support parents and caregivers in this mission.

Al Melhi also pointed out the crucial role parents and the community play in raising awareness about the importance of healthy nutrition and adopting healthy eating habits for children and families. She noted that collaborative community efforts are vital in enhancing the overall health and well-being of children.

This comprehensive effort by ADECA and its partners marks a significant step towards fostering a healthier future for the younger generation in Abu Dhabi.