Policy Assessment of Food and Nutrition in Iran Based on Article Number Six of the General Health Policy Document

The word policy is a statement by an authoritative body with intent to act in order to maintain or alter a condition in the society. A food policy for example, is any decision, program or project that is endorsed by a government agency, business, or organization, which effects how food is produced, processed, distributed, purchased, protected or disposed. Based on article six of the overall health policy this document relates to, “ensuring food quality and equitable utilization of a healthy food basket, suitable and adequate provision of water and clean air, and public sports facilities that uphold safety standards of health products for national , regional and global standards”. It comprises one of the main health policies in Iran. In the present context, health policy research is undertaken after evaluating and analyzing the current policies in each section of the general health policy document (i.e. food and nutrition safety, prevention of noncommunicable disease, education and research in food safety etc) successful food and nutrition policies in similar countries are reviewed, and indicators for monitoring article six of the overall health policy document was assessed. Moreover, based on upstream documentation, the most appropriate interventions for the next five years are suggested. Stakeholder analysis determined the most important interventions at an international and national level (i.e. research, education ,collaboration, production, food. supply and demand). The most important interventions aimed at promoting food and nutrition safety based upon expert panel views were: A. Incorporation of food and nutrition programs, food safety, preventing noncommunicable disease, sustainable food and nutrition, respecting economic, cultural, and ecological aspects, B. Sovereignty, trusteeship and leadership of the high council of health and food safety, C. Development of food and nutrition observation system and program evaluation for informed policy making. There is a strong need to address nutrition, prevent noncommunicable disease, promote food safety and prevent poverty.