Menu ENN Search
Language: English Français

How many kilos of fruit and veg does one person need per month to make a significant impact on their nutritional status?

This question was posted the Micronutrients forum area and has 2 replies.

» Post a reply

Jude

Normal user

12 Jan 2018, 16:30

Hi - this is the scenario- a refugee camp in the desert where 25% of the population have chronic malnutrition. Dry rations are distributed to everyone. there is very little fruit and veg. A project is being proposed which will transport in (costing about 700k EUR for 3 months) enough fruit and veg for 125,000 people over the summer months to give 1kg per person per month. Im not a nutritionist but I just did a very crude calculation of weighing 5 pieces of fruit (the recommended daily amount in the UK) to see how much i would need a month. That came to at least 6 kg (including skins!). So from a nutritional point of view and with an aim to improve nutritional status is 1kg realistically going to make ANY difference? Are we not better off giving micronutrient powder to the most vulnerable? is there any research on this? ANY advice welcome. Thanks

Lova RALAMBOMAHAY

Spécialiste en Nutrition

Normal user

12 Jan 2018, 18:26

Good evening, I advise you to give micronutrients powder, it is more economical and effective in responding to deficiencies. If not, for cases of chronic malnutrition why not provide nutributter, it is rich in essential fatty acids. You will have more tangible results with these micronutrients. Thank you

RITA BHATIA

Global Child Nutrition Forum

Frequent user

13 Jan 2018, 10:46

It is important to have diet diversity through fresh food items even if in small amounts. However, to meet the requirements of vulnerable groups like young children and PLW- MNP, lipid based products and fortified foods such as veg oil, ( A and D) iodized salt and fortified flour - maize or wheat. It is not either or or but combination of various strategies. You should consider food voucher based market assessment and the prices
Acceptibilty and sustainability of interventions is very crucial. So discussions with the people.

If you have any problem posting a response, please contact the moderator at post@en-net.org.

Back to top

» Post a reply