Iron and folate fortification in the Americas to prevent and control micronutrient malnutrition: an analysis

Nutr Rev. 1999 Jan;57(1):25-31. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.1999.tb01773.x.

Abstract

Although there has been a remarkable decline in the proportion of malnourished children in Latin America, micronutrient deficiencies, especially iron deficiency anemia, remain significant public health problems. A substantial reduction in the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia is an important goal for the end of the decade. Interest in fortifying wheat flour and dry-milled maize flour is thus growing, and significant experience in the fortification of flours with iron and the B vitamins, including folate, is emerging. It is necessary to ensure that fortification levels and standards, legislation, and quality assurance and control measures are in place nationally and harmonized regionally.

MeSH terms

  • Anemia, Iron-Deficiency / drug therapy
  • Anemia, Iron-Deficiency / prevention & control*
  • Caribbean Region
  • Flour*
  • Food, Fortified*
  • Humans
  • Iron / administration & dosage*
  • Latin America
  • Micronutrients*
  • Nutrition Policy
  • Quality Control
  • South America
  • Triticum
  • Vitamin B Complex / administration & dosage*

Substances

  • Micronutrients
  • Vitamin B Complex
  • Iron