Polvoron, arroz caldo being developed as ‘emergency food’

ZAMBOANGA CITY (PNA) – The local delicacy “polvoron” and the Filipino comfort food “arroz caldo” are among the emergency food items being developed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through the Industrial Technology Development Institute (ITDI), that could be included among relief goods distributed during times of calamities.

Dr. Anthony Sales, Mindanao DOST cluster chairman, told in an interview at the sideline of the 2015 Mindanao Science and Technology (S&T) Fair that the “polvoron” emergency food is actually ready for mass production.

“Polvoron” is a heavy, soft and crumbly type of Spanish shortbread made of flour, sugar, milk and nuts. It is more popularly served as dessert or snacks in the country.

According to Sales, the “polvoron” bar was already being produced by a small and medium enterprise (SMEs) in Luzon and they were now eyeing the food innovation center of the Philippines Women’s College to produce it for the Mindanao area.

Sales also reported that the “arroz caldo” was already undergoing storage stability study and analysis.

“Arroz caldo” is a type of rice porridge or gruel mixed with chunks of chicken.

He said the rice porridge, like the polvoron bar, would be mass produced once the storage stability study is completed.

And once the two food items are approved as emergency food, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) can stock up on these foods, which can be ready for distribution as part of relief packs in times of calamity.