08/10/2010

The Gold Award is given annually in recognition of the work of individuals and entities that contribute to the propagation of the egg and its role in the Mediterranean diet. In this case, the Egg Research Institute has given the Gold Award to the Spanish Agency for Food Security and Nutrition (AESAN), for two reasons:

• The educational work in relation to the nutrition of children and recommendations for egg consumption in the menu of schools. AESAN recognizes the place the egg should assume as food of high nutritional value in the diet of children and adolescents.
• And for coordinating and presenting the Spanish Data Base of Food Composition (BEDCA) that extends notably the nutritional information from official sources for eggs (including eggs of chicken, quail and duck) and that describes the composition of the separate parts of the egg and the usual preparations in our diet, for the chicken egg.

In this way, the AESAN contributes to the achievement of common objectives with the Institute of Egg Studies: improving understanding, appreciation and use of this foodstuff. Undoubtedly, these initiatives will facilitate the task of many professional chefs and restaurants, eliminate prejudices and myths about the egg and improve diet and the health of our population.

The Chairman of the Agency, Roberto Sabrido, received the award from the hands of the President of the Institute of Egg Studies, Manuel Jiménez and welcomed this recognition for a work, that is carried out since the beginning of the creation of AESAN, and therefore this recognition was amplified to all those who in these nine years have been able to endorse this task through their efforts.

In this manner, the egg is a food that throughout history has been crucial in any valuable diet, its nutritional value and its adjusted market value has made it an indispensable resource in the diet.

Undoubtedly, having good references in the Composition of Foods are a useful tool for assessing the nutritional status of populations throughout life, both in situations of health and disease. In this way, the Spanish Data Base of Food Composition (BEDCA) was started, whose launch was also taken into account by this recognition.

The Strategy for Nutrition, Physical Activity and Prevention of Obesity (NAOS) was highlighted, which since its creation in 2005, aims to improve eating habits and to encourage a regular practice of physical activity, with particular emphasis on the infant-juvenile stage. A strategy that is included in the draft law on Food Safety Law and Nutrition, adopted last September at the Council of Ministers, in order to enhance the development, already on legal basis.

At the same event, held at this time, and due to the celebration of the World Egg Day, scheduled for today, October 8th, the Institute presented the Award for Research and proceeded to review its activities during the past year, updating scientific information on this foodstuff and the importance of the industry connected with its production.

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