The ECOWAS Technical Committee for Standards Management (TMC) has approved revised regional standards for fortified foods following a two-day meeting held on July 28 and 29, 2025, in Praia, Cape Verde.
The meeting, supported by UNICEF, focused on key staples such as iodized salt, vegetable oils, and wheat flour—products crucial to addressing malnutrition in West Africa. The move aligns with the ECOWAS Common Industrial Policy (PICAO) and the ECOSHAM model, which aims to harmonize standards across member states.
In addition to updating the food standards, the committee also approved the reorganization of several sectoral technical committees to better coordinate standard-setting efforts.
ECOWAS Director of Industry, Lassané Kaboré, highlighted the strategic relevance of food fortification, stating that such standards are vital for both public health and regional economic development.
UNICEF reaffirmed its commitment to improving child nutrition through the promotion of fortified foods and praised ECOWAS for prioritizing food safety and accessibility.
The meeting was described by stakeholders as a significant milestone toward achieving better nutrition outcomes and ensuring that fortified foods meet the needs of communities across West Africa.
