Use of Micronutrient Powder in At-Home Foods for Young Children (6-18 Months): A Feasibility Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.3923/pjn.2017.372.377Keywords:
Home-food fortification, infants, micronutrient supplementation, young childrenAbstract
Background and Objective: Micronutrient deficiency is prevalent among young children in low and middle-income countries. Micronutrient powder (MNP) has gained popularity for treatment and prevention of micronutrient deficiency due to its ease of use and low cost. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of incorporating MNP into foods consumed at-home by young children. Methodology: A total of 25 children aged 6-18 months consumed a packet of MNP per day for 10 days. Data on compliance, acceptance and preference for MNP were obtained through observation and interviews with the parents. Results: All parents showed a high level of compliance and reported no observed side effects of MNP use. Most parents reported easy mixing of MNP with foods (92%) no change in the taste (88%), smell (92%) or color (94%) of mixed foods and improved appetite in children (88%). The majority of parents (76%) were willing to purchase MNP. Children preferred MNP added to mashed fruits/fruit juices (96.8%), infant formula/whole milk (93.6%) and infant cereals/cereal products (92.8%). Conclusion: This study showed that it was feasible to incorporate MNP into foods consumed by young children at home. Fortification of at-home foods with MNP could be an effective strategy to improve the health and nutrition of children.
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