Malnutrition has been on the rise in Pakistan for a very long time and one way to address this challenge is fortification of food. Fortification adds additional important nutrients to food products to improve their nutritional value. For years this has been a viable solution to reduce malnutrition, especially vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
Fortification, particularly in children’s food is a great way to reduce malnutrition leading to better health. It is a great way to increase the intake of essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, iron, iodine, zinc and folic acid.
One of the reasons why fortification is an effective way to reduce malnutrition is also that it has the capacity to reach large populations since it involves adding nutrients to commonly consumed foods, for instance. These fortified products can be easily distributed and made available to communities, including rural and remote areas where access to a diverse diet may be limited.
Fortification also can target specific nutrient deficiencies prevalent in a population. For example, iron deficiency disorders can be addressed by fortifying wheat flour, milk and dairy nutrition solutions with iron, iodine deficiencies can be reduced by fortifying salt with iodine. This targeted approach helps address specific nutritional gaps and reduces the risk of related health problems.
In Pakistan, fortification can have a significant impact on the health of pregnant women and children, who are particularly vulnerable to malnutrition. Fortifying products to overcome malnutrition is important because micronutrient deficiencies can impair immune function, increase the risk of infections and diseases, hinder cognitive development, and contribute to stunted growth. Fortifying foods with vitamins and minerals helps ensure an adequate intake of these nutrients and reduces the prevalence of deficiencies.
Another reason why fortification is a viable solution to overcome malnutrition is that it is often considered cost-effective compared to other interventions. It leverages existing food production and distribution systems, requiring minimal changes to people’s dietary habits. Additionally, the cost of fortifying food is relatively low, making it an economically viable approach to improve the nutritional status of populations.
In a country like Pakistan where widespread changes that require massive resources are difficult, food fortification to increase micronutrient deficiencies like iron and essential vitamins is relatively easier approach – one that can show great impact in little time. It is perhaps time that government starts prioritizing public and private sector food companies to fortify food but also increases their awareness so consumers value and consume fortified food as well.