National Consultation-cum-Brain Storming Session on Fortification of Edible Salt with Micronutrients

ABSTRACT

Micronutrient malnutrition (MNM) can affect all age groups, but young children and women of reproductive age tend to be among those most at risk of developing micronutrient deficiencies. In India, Iodine Deficiency Disorders and Iron Deficiency Anaemia are important Public Health problems.No state in India is free from iodine deficiency. Out of 343 districts surveyed, 286 are reported have Iodine Deficiency Disorders. Iron Deficiency Anaemia is reported in about 60% population across all age groups. The magnitude of vitamin B12 Deficiency is reported to be about 47% in urban population of Delhi while Zinc Deficiency is reported in about 44% amongst Indian children. In addition, there are other micronutrients and minerals like folic acid which are of public health concern.