Uniting for nutrition

A resolution with global impact

This week marks a crucial moment in the global fight against malnutrition as health policy, disability rights, and nutrition advocates join forces to support an important resolution on food fortification. The 76th World Health Assembly (WHA), scheduled from May 21-30, 2023, sets the stage for the passage of this resolution that holds immense potential to prevent deficiencies and their devastating consequences, including spina bifida and other neural tube defects. With the attention of global health leaders turned towards this event, it’s time for all of us to take action and ensure a healthier future for all.

A community of advocates focused on large scale food fortification with folic acid, spearheaded by the Global Alliance for the Prevention of Spina Bifida, came together to rally behind the resolution titled “Accelerating efforts for preventing micronutrient deficiencies, spina bifida and other neural tube defects through safe and effective food fortification.” As one of many partner organizations who signed on to the resolution, IGN supported the initiative, with a senior staff member making a statement to the WHO Executive Board’s 152nd session in February on including this resolution on the agenda for consideration and passage at the WHA.

Food fortification has long been recognized as an effective solution to combat micronutrient deficiencies. With successful implementation spanning over three decades, many countries have witnessed the positive impact of fortifying widely consumed food items such as wheat, maize flour, and salt with essential vitamins and minerals. Notably, the adoption of salt iodization programs has safeguarded the brain development of millions of children worldwide. However, recent trends indicate a decline in awareness and compliance with these programs, leading to a resurgence of deficiencies. The passage of the WHA resolution would not only support the work of organizations like IGN, but it would also bolster advocacy for large-scale food fortification programs that will positively impact the lives of millions.

The upcoming discussion and potential passage of the resolution on food fortification at the WHA provide a significant opportunity to address nutritional deficiencies and their consequences. Through awareness, support, and active engagement, we can collectively combat hidden hunger and promote global nutrition.

The collective efforts of nutrition advocates highlight the urgency and importance of addressing nutritional deficiencies through food fortification. If you want to contribute to this vital cause, here are some actionable steps you can take:

1. Read the resolution and learn which organizations have endorsed the resolution.
2. Write to your government and encourage them to endorse the WHA resolution and advocate for robust policies that ensure the availability and accessibility of fortified foods.
3. Learn more about food fortification by watching this video.
4. Share information about the benefits of food fortification—including this blog!