The Punjab Food Authority (PFA), in collaboration with the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), has introduced nutritious fruit bars for schoolchildren to combat child malnutrition under the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
PFA Director General Muhammad Asim Javaid said the initiative seeks to replace low-nutrition market snacks with healthier alternatives, promoting better eating habits among children. He emphasized that without proper nutrition and growth, children cannot perform well in the future.
As part of the Chief Minister’s ongoing School Meal Program, 20,000 children enrolled in 70 schools are currently receiving daily meals that provide 480 calories. The program also includes pre- and post-screening of students’ height, weight, and BMI, with a Phase-2 nutrition report to be released after assessments.
The DG noted that many currently available market snacks fail to meet nutritional standards, making the fruit bar initiative a key step toward improving children’s dietary intake. He termed the effort a major milestone in ensuring healthier snacking options for students.
He added that the PFA is implementing modern communication strategies to educate children, parents, and teachers about nutritious food choices. All available resources, he said, are being utilized to strengthen child health in line with the Chief Minister’s vision for a healthier Punjab.
