Abstract:
Background: Salt iodization is the strategy approved by the Moldovan Government to eliminate and prevent iodine deficiency. The impacts of salt
iodization requires data on food industry involvement and commitment in reaching two of main objectives of the national public health programs. The
aim of the survey was to investigate food industry understanding and attitudes as the main stakeholders in the implementation of salt iodization strategy
to control iodine deficiency.
Material and methods: Cross-sectional survey of 386 representatives of food industry across the country was compiled. A self-administered
questionnaire was used to assess food industry knowledge, perception and attitudes related to salt iodization to control iodine deficiency.
Results: general knowledge about salt iodization to prevent iodine deficiency was relatively good. Food industry is committed to be a partner for
the Government in the sustainable elimination of Iodine deficiency.
Conclusions: Consumer education, rising of consumer demand for iodized salt, mandatory use of iodized salt in food production, revising of
old food standards and technologies and providing of evidence on iodized salt using in food production are the main supports the industry needs to
accomplish their role.
Description:
School of Public Health Management, Nicolae Testemitsanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, the Republic of Moldova
