Guidelines issued on food support for people affected by ‘Ditwah’

By Sheain Fernandopulle 

The Ministry of Health has issued new guidelines outlining minimum standards for providing food and nutrition support to people affected by emergencies such as floods, landslides and mass displacement.

According to the circular issued by Director General of Health Services Dr. Asela Gunawardena, uninterrupted access to safe food, clean drinking water and sanitation is essential during disaster situations.

Food assistance during emergencies will be provided in two forms — cooked meals during the initial response phase and dry rations as communities regain access to cooking facilities.

In the acute phase, cooked meals are to be supplied to affected households, temporary shelters and evacuation camps through community kitchens or mobile cooking units.

The guidelines call for culturally appropriate, nutritionally balanced meals consisting of staple foods, protein sources, vegetables and fruits. Special consideration should be given to vulnerable groups including infants, children, pregnant and lactating mothers, the elderly and individuals with non-communicable diseases.

The circular also emphasizes strict adherence to food safety practices, including proper hygiene, safe water use, prevention of cross-contamination, full cooking of meals and secure storage.

As communities transition to recovery, dry ration packs will be distributed to households to support self-cooking.

Furthermore, a standard pack should include staple cereals, pulses, protein sources such as canned or dried fish, oil, vegetables, fruits, bottled water and basic condiments. All food items must be sealed, clean and stored safely to prevent contamination.

The Director General has requested all relevant officers to ensure implementation of the guidelines and to maintain food safety standards during relief operations.