Curds in the way: A milk curd obstruction review and normal sonographic bowel appearances using a novel scoring system in neonates on fortified breast milk feeds.

INTRODUCTION: Fortified expressed breast milk (FEBM) is a standard of care for premature and low birth weight neonates, but comes with an elevated risk of a rare but re-emergent pathology called milk curd obstruction (MCO). Little is known about normal sonographic appearances of bowel contents in this feeding setting, making the recognition of abnormalities difficult. Thus, we aimed to describe appearances that may be considered typical pre- and post-fortifier inclusion. METHODS: Ten neonates of <32 weeks' gestation or a birth weight of <1,800 g recruited from Auckland City Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care between 1/5/2019 and 10/9/2019 received bowel ultrasounds within 24 h before and 10-14 days after starting FEBM. Bowel contents in six abdominal regions were assigned scores of 1-6 based on increasing solidification. RESULTS: Lower gestational age was correlated with more solid contents on the pre-fortifier ultrasound (P = 0.02). Fortifier was significantly associated with increasing solidity, particularly in the left abdomen (P < 0.001). The left lower quadrant and rectum accounted for much of this change (P = 0.012 and P = 0.002). One subject who subsequently developed a clinical picture consistent with early MCO had uniquely demonstrated non-rectal solid contents (score 6). The interobserver kappa score for two assessors was 0.91 (95% CI 0.94-0.99) on still images. CONCLUSION: This small cohort demonstrated increasing bowel content solidification after breast milk fortification using a novel ultrasound scoring system with good interobserver agreement. Non-rectal solid contents (score 6) appeared atypical. Ultrasound shows promise for its non-irradiating diagnostic utility in the setting of early milk curd disease evaluation of the premature neonate.

Guideline: fortification of wheat flour with vitamins and minerals as a public health strategy

This guideline provides locally adaptable, clear, evidence-informed global recommendations on the fortification of wheat flour with vitamins and minerals as a public health strategy to improve the micronutrient status of populations, which are grounded in gender, equity and human rights approaches with the aim of leaving no one behind. The focus of this document is on the use of this intervention as a public health strategy and not on market-driven fortification of wheat flour or products. This guideline aims to help Member States and their partners to make informed decisions on the appropriate nutrition actions to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the global targets set in the World Health Organization (WHO) comprehensive implementation plan on maternal, infant and young child nutrition. The recommendations in this guideline are intended for a wide audience, including policymakers, expert advisers, and technical and programme staff in ministries and organizations involved in the design, implementation and scaling-up of nutrition actions for public health. The recommendations are particularly relevant to the design and implementation of appropriate food-fortification programmes, as part of a comprehensive food-based strategy for combating micronutrient inadequacies and deficiencies. These recommendations supersede the previous WHO recommendation on the fortification of wheat flour.

Adherence to home fortification with micronutrient powders in Kenyan pre-school children: self-reporting and sachet counts compared to an electronic monitoring device.

BACKGROUND: The efficacy of home fortification with iron-containing micronutrient powders varies between trials, perhaps in part due to population differences in adherence. We aimed to assess to what extent adherence measured by sachet count or self-reporting forms is in agreement with adherence measured by electronic device. In addition, we explored how each method of adherence assessment (electronic device, sachet count, self-reporting forms) is associated with haemoglobin concentration measured at the end of intervention; and to what extent baseline factors were associated with adherence as measured by electronic device. METHODS: Three hundred thirty-eight rural Kenyan children aged 12-36 months were randomly allocated to three treatment arms (home fortification with two different iron formulations or placebo). Home fortificants were administered daily by parents or guardians over a 30 day-intervention period. We assessed adherence using an electronic device that stores and provides information of the time and day of opening of the container that was used to store the fortificants sachets in each child's residence. In addition, we assessed adherence by self-reporting and sachet counts. We also measured haemoglobin concentration at the end of intervention. RESULTS: Adherence, defined as having received at least 24 sachets (≥ 80%), during the 30-day intervention period was attained by only 60.6% of children as assessed by the electronic device. The corresponding values were higher when adherence was assessed by self-report (83.9%; difference: 23.3%, 95% CI: 18.8% to 27.8%) or sachet count (86.3%; difference: 25.7%, 95% CI: 21.0% to 30.4%). Among children who received iron, each 10 openings of the electronic cap of the sachet storage container were associated with an increase in haemoglobin concentration at the end of intervention by 1.2 g/L (95% CI: 0.0 to 1.9 g/L). Adherence was associated with the age of the parent but not with intervention group; with age, sex or anthropometric indices of the child; or with age or sex of the parent or guardian. CONCLUSIONS: The use of self -reporting and sachet count may lead to overestimates of adherence to home fortification. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT02073149 ) on 25 February 2014.

Folic Acid in Stroke Prevention in Countries without Mandatory Folic Acid Food Fortification: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Additional folic acid (FA) treatment appears to have a neutral effect on reducing vascular risk in countries that mandate FA fortification of food (e.g., USA and Canada). However, it is uncertain whether FA therapy reduces stroke risk in countries without FA food fortification. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy of FA therapy on stroke prevention in countries without FA food fortification. METHODS: PubMed, EMBASE, and clinicaltrials.gov from January 1966 to August 2016 were searched to identify relevant studies. Relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used as a measure of the association between FA supplementation and risk of stroke, after pooling data across trials in a random-effects model. RESULTS: The search identified 13 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving treatment with FA that had enrolled 65,812 participants, all of which stroke was reported as an outcome measure. After all 13 RCTs were pooled, FA therapy versus control was associated with a lower risk of any future stroke (RR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.77 to 0.95). FA alone or combination of FA and minimal cyanocobalamin (≤0.05 mg/day) was associated with a lower risk of future stroke (RR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.66 to 0.86) whereas combination of FA and cyanocobalamin (≥0.4 mg/day) was not associated with a lower risk of future stroke (RR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.86 to 1.05). CONCLUSIONS: FA supplement reduced stroke in countries without mandatory FA food fortification. The benefit was found mostly in patients receiving FA alone or combination of FA and minimal cyanocobalamin.

Diseño de un alimento infantil listo para consumir fortificado con hierro a base de arveja (Pisum sativum) / Design of a ready-to-eat child food fortified with pea-based iron (Pisum sativum)

Resumen Introducción: La deficiencia de hierro es uno de los problemas nutricionales más prevalentes a nivel mundial y afecta principalmente a la población vulnerable como niños menores de 5 años. Los alimentos fortificados de consumo infantil hacen parte de las estrategias de intervención y se elaboran a partir de la mezcla ingredientes como cereales, frutas, leguminosas, entre otros. La arveja, es una leguminosa que puede ser empleada con el fin de aprovechar sus propiedades nutricionales. Objetivo: Diseñar un alimento infantil con arveja (Pisum sativum) listo para consumir, fortificado con hierro e higienizado por pasteurización. Materiales y métodos: Se seleccionó el porcentaje de arveja adecuado en el alimento mediante análisis sensorial. La selección de la sal de hierro se realizó mediante análisis fisicoquímico y sensorial empleando sulfato ferroso y hierro aminoquelado. Posteriormente se evaluó el crecimiento de microorganismos mesófilos con el fin de seleccionar el tratamiento térmico de pasteurización. La evaluación de vida útil se llevó a cabo a través de pruebas sensoriales. Finalmente se realizó la evaluación fisicoquímica, composicional y microbiológica del alimento higienizado. Resultados: La adición de arveja en porcentajes no mayores al 6,5% dentro de la formulación del alimento resultó aceptable para los padres de niños menores de 5 años. Por otra parte la sal seleccionada por generar menos cambios sobre el color y la acidez del alimento durante el almacenamiento fue hierro aminoquelado. Los resultados de tratamiento térmico mostraron que para reducir la concentración inicial de mesófilos y obtener un alimento de buena calidad de acuerdo con la normativa colombiana vigente fue necesario someter el alimento a 85°C durante 13 minutos (0,45 D), con lo que se consiguió mantener la calidad inicial del alimento durante 12 días bajo refrigeración. Conclusiones: El alimento desarrollado cumple con los criterios sensoriales y microbiológicos exigidos en la normativa colombiana vigente y es apto para el consumo, además se puede catalogar como alto en hierro y buena fuente de proteína, aportando el 25% y el 15% de la recomendación diaria en Colombia respectivamente.

Abstract Introduction: Iron deficiency is one of the most prevalent nutritional problems at the global level which mainly affects the vulnerable population as children under 5 years of age. Fortified foods of child consumption are part of the intervention strategies, which are made from the mixture of ingredients such as cereals, fruits, legumes, among others. Pea is a legume that can be used in order to take advantage of its nutritional properties. Objective: To design a ready-to-eat child food with peas (Pisum sativum), fortified with iron and sanitized by pasteurization. Materials and methods: The appropriate percentage of peas in the food was selected by sensory analysis. The selection of iron salt was made by physicochemical and sensory analysis using ferrous sulphate and chelate iron. Subsequently, the growth of mesophilic microorganisms was evaluated in order to select the pasteurization heat treatment. The useful life evaluation was carried out through sensory tests. Finally, the physico-chemical, compositional and microbiological evaluation of the sanitized food was implemented. Results: The addition of peas in percentages not greater than 6.5% within the food formulation was acceptable for parents of children under 5. On the other hand, the selected salt to generate less changes on the color and acidity of the food during storage was chelate iron. The results of heat treatment showed that for reducing the initial concentration of mesophiles and obtaining a good quality food according to the Colombian regulations in force, it was necessary to submit the food to 85 °C for 13 minutes (0.45 D), which managed to maintain the initial quality of the food for 12 days under refrigeration. Conclusions: The developed food complies with the sensory and microbiological criteria demanded in the Colombian regulations in force and is suitable for consumption. Besides, it can be catalogued as high in iron and a good source of protein, contributing with 25% and 15% of the daily recommendation in Colombia, respectively.

Folic Acid in Stroke Prevention in Countries without Mandatory Folic Acid Food Fortification: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials / 대한뇌졸중학회지

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Additional folic acid (FA) treatment appears to have a neutral effect on reducing vascular risk in countries that mandate FA fortification of food (e.g., USA and Canada). However, it is uncertain whether FA therapy reduces stroke risk in countries without FA food fortification. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy of FA therapy on stroke prevention in countries without FA food fortification. METHODS: PubMed, EMBASE, and clinicaltrials.gov from January 1966 to August 2016 were searched to identify relevant studies. Relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used as a measure of the association between FA supplementation and risk of stroke, after pooling data across trials in a random-effects model. RESULTS: The search identified 13 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving treatment with FA that had enrolled 65,812 participants, all of which stroke was reported as an outcome measure. After all 13 RCTs were pooled, FA therapy versus control was associated with a lower risk of any future stroke (RR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.77 to 0.95). FA alone or combination of FA and minimal cyanocobalamin (≤0.05 mg/day) was associated with a lower risk of future stroke (RR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.66 to 0.86) whereas combination of FA and cyanocobalamin (≥0.4 mg/day) was not associated with a lower risk of future stroke (RR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.86 to 1.05). CONCLUSIONS: FA supplement reduced stroke in countries without mandatory FA food fortification. The benefit was found mostly in patients receiving FA alone or combination of FA and minimal cyanocobalamin.

Guideline: use of multiple micronutrient powders for point-of-use fortification of foods consumed by pregnant women

Member States have requested guidance from the World Health Organization on the effects and safety of the use of multiple micronutrient powders for point-of-use fortification of foods consumed by pregnant women. This guideline is intended to help Member States in their efforts to make evidence-informed decisions on the appropriate nutrition actions to improve the nutritional status of pregnant women. It will also support their efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, the global targets set by the Comprehensive implementation plan on maternal, infant and young child nutrition and the Global strategy for women's, children's, and adolescents' health 2016­2030. The guideline is intended for a wide audience, including governments, nongovernmental organizations, healthcare workers, scientists and donors involved in the design and implementation of micronutrient programmes and antenatal care services and their integration into national and subnational public health strategies and programmes. This WHO guideline states that routine use of multiple micronutrient powders during pregnancy is not recommended as an alternative to standard iron and folic supplementation during pregnancy for improving maternal and infant health outcomes.

Desarrollo de un refresco a partir de la mezcla de fresa ( Fragaria ananassa ), mora ( Rubus glaucus ), gulupa ( Passiflora edulis Sims ) y uchuva ( Physalis peruviana L. ) fortificado con hierro dirigido a niños en edad preescolar / Development of an iron-fortified drink from strawberry ( Fragaria ananassa ), blackberry ( Rubus glaucus ), purple passion fruit ( Passiflora edulis sims ) and gooseberry ( Physalis peruviana l. ) for preschoolers

RESUMEN Antecedentes la deficiencia de hierro, es reconocida a nivel mundial como uno de los principales problemas de salud pública asociados a la nutrición. En Colombia es necesario mejorar las estrategias nutricionales encaminadas a la población infantil, con el fin de incrementar su calidad de vida. Objetivo: desarrollar un refresco a partir de la mezcla de fresa, mora, gulupa y uchuva fortificado con hierro para niños en edad preescolar. Materiales y métodos para el desarrollo del producto, se seleccionaron cuatro frutas y se caracterizaron fisicoquímicamente. Para establecer la formulación del refresco, se realizó un diseño experimental ortogonal L82 , evaluando la aceptación sensorial como variable respuesta. Finalmente, se caracterizó el producto desarrollado, determinando el contenido de hierro y vitamina C. Resultados los ocho prototipos evaluados durante el desarrollo de la formulación, cumplieron con los requisitos establecidos en la normativa colombiana para los refrescos de fruta. El prototipo final presentó un contenido de 36,7% de fruta y el 40% del valor diario recomendado de hierro, en una porción de 250 ml. Conclusiones las cuatro frutas estudiadas pueden ser utilizadas en el desarrollo de refrescos con un importante aporte de vitamina C y fortificados con hierro, como estrategia nutricional para prevenir la deficiencia de este mineral en niños.

ABSTRACT Background Iron deficiency is recognized worldwide as a major public health concern, related to nutrition. In Colombia, the improvement of the nutritional strategies for children are required to increase their life quality. Objective To develop a mixed fruit beverage from strawberry, blackberry, gooseberry and purple passion fruit, fortified with iron for preschoolers. Materials and methods For the product development, four fruits were selected and characterized. To establish the beverage formulation, an orthogonal experimental design L825 was performed, evaluating the sensory acceptance as the response variable. Finally, the selected product was characterized by determining the content of iron and vitamin C. Results The eight prototypes obtained during the development of the beverage formulation accomplished the requirements of the Colombian law. The final prototype had a fruit content of 36.7 wt% and an iron intake value of 40 wt%, in a portion of 250 ml. Conclusions the four fruits studied can be used for the development of iron-fortified beverages, with an important contribution of vitamin C, as a nutritional strategy to prevent the deficiencies of this mineral in children.

Anemia e nível de hemoglobina em gestantes de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brasil, antes e após a fortificação compulsória de farinhas com ferro e ácido fólico, 2003-2006 / Anemia and hemoglobin levels in pregnant women from Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil, before and after the mandatory flour fortification with iron and folic acid, 2003-2006 / Anemia y niveles de hemoglobina en mujeres embarazadas de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brasil, antes y después de la fortificación obligatoria de la harina con hierro y ácido fólico, 2003-2006

OBJETIVO: avaliar a prevalência de anemia e níveis de hemoglobina de gestantes, antes e após a fortificação compulsória de farinhas com ferro, e os fatores associados. MÉTODOS: foram comparadas duas amostras transversais independentes de gestantes de Cuiabá-MT, Brasil (2003 a 2006), alocadas em dois grupos - não fortificado (n=414) e fortificado (n=539); realizou-se análise de regressão logística e linear, com nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS: não houve diferença entre os grupos não fortificado e fortificado, na prevalência de anemia (22,2% e 27,8%, respectivamente; p=0,051) e no nível de hemoglobina (ambos com média de 11,7g/dL; p=0,058); maior prevalência de anemia e menor média de hemoglobina associaram-se com maior número de gestações anteriores, maior idade gestacional e baixo peso no início da gestação. CONCLUSÕES: não se encontrou efeito significativo da fortificação compulsória de farinhas, embora a avaliação da gestação indique alta prevalência de anemia e variáveis importantes a serem consideradas.

OBJECTIVE: to evaluate prevalence of anemia and hemoglobin levels among pregnant women before and after mandatory flour fortification with iron, and to investigate associated factors. METHODS: We compared two independent cross-sectional samples of pregnant women from Cuiaba-MT, Brazil (2003 to 2006), divided into two groups: not-fortified (n=414) and fortified (n=539); we conducted logistic and linear regression analysis, with a 5% significance level. RESULTS: there were no differences between the not-fortified and fortified groups with regard to the prevalence of anemia (22.2% and 27.8%, respectively; p=0.051) and hemoglobin level (mean=11.7g/dL; p=0.058); higher anemia prevalence and lower mean hemoglobin levels were associated with a higher number of previous pregnancies, greater gestational age and lower weight in early pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS: the study shows no significant effect of mandatory flour fortification with iron, but it highlights an important prevalence of anemia and associated factors that must be considered in the evaluation of anemia in pregnancy.

OBJETIVO: evaluar la prevalencia de anemia y niveles de hemoglobina en mujeres embarazadas antes y después de la fortificación obligatoria de la harina con hierro y los factores asociados. MÉTODOS: se compararon dos muestras transversales independientes de mujeres embarazadas de Cuiabá-MT, Brasil (2003-2006), divididos en dos grupos: no-fortificado (n=414) y fortificado (n=539); realizamos análisis de regresión logística y lineal, con nivel de significación de 5%. RESULTADOS: no hubo diferencia, entre los grupos, en la prevalencia de anemia (22,2% y 27,8%, respectivamente; p=0,051) o en la concentración de hemoglobina (media en ambos=11,7g/dL; p=0,058); mayor prevalencia de anemia y menor concentración de hemoglobina se asociaron con mayor número de embarazos previos, mayor edad y bajo peso al inicio del embarazo. CONCLUSIONES: no encontramos un efecto significativo de la fortificación obligatoria de harinas, sin embargo mostramos una alta prevalencia de anemia y variables importantes que deben ser consideradas en la evaluación de anemia en el embarazo.

Hemoglobin curves during pregnancy before and after fortification of flours with iron / Curvas de hemoglobina ao longo da gestação antes e após a fortificação de farinhas com ferro / Curvas de hemoglobina durante el embarazo antes y después de la fortificación de la harina con hierro

Objective: To assess the level of hemoglobin-Hb during pregnancy before and after fortification of flours with iron. Method: A cross-sectional study with data from 12,119 pregnant women attended at a public prenatal from five macro regions of Brazil. The sample was divided into two groups: Before-fortification (birth before June/2004) and After-fortification (last menstruation after June/2005). Hb curves were compared with national and international references. Polynomial regression models were built, with a significance level of 5%. Results: Although the higher levels of Hb in all gestational months after-fortification, the polynomial regression did not show the fortification effect (p=0.3). Curves in the two groups were above the references in the first trimester, with following decrease and stabilization at the end of pregnancy. Conclusion: Although the fortification effect was not confirmed, the study presents variation of Hb levels during pregnancy, which is important for assistencial practice and evaluation of public policies.
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Objetivo: Evaluar el nivel de hemoglobina (Hb) durante el embarazo antes y después de la fortificación de la harina con hierro. Método: Estudio transversal con datos de 12.119 mujeres embarazadas que acuden a consultas prenatales públicas en municipios de las cinco macro-regiones de Brasil. Se formaron dos grupos: Antes de la Fortificación (parto antes de junio de 2004) y Después de la Fortificación (última menstruación después de junio de 2005). Las Curvas de Hb se compararon con referencias nacionales e internacionales. Se construyeron modelos de regresión polinomial, con nivel de significancia del 5%. Resultados: A pesar de altos niveles de Hb en todos los meses Después de la Fortificación, la regresión polinómica no mostró efecto de la fortificación (p=0,3). Las curvas de los dos grupos estaban por encima de las referencias en el primer trimestre, para luego caer y posteriormente estabilizarse al final del embarazo. Conclusión: Aunque no se observó efecto de la fortificación, el estudio muestra variaciones en los niveles de Hb durante el embarazo, lo que es importante para la práctica asistencial y la evaluación de las políticas públicas.
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Objetivo: Avaliar o nível de hemoglobina-Hb ao longo da gestação antes e após a fortificação de farinhas com ferro. Método: Estudo transversal com dados de 12.119 gestantes atendidas em pré-natal público de municípios das cinco macrorregiões do Brasil. Formaram-se dois grupos: Antes-fortificação (parto anterior a jun/2004) e Após-fortificação (última menstruação posterior a jun/2005). Curvas de Hb foram comparadas com referências nacional e internacional. Construíram-se modelos de regressão polinomial, com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: Apesar dos níveis superiores de Hb em todos os meses gestacionais após-fortificação, a regressão polinomial não mostrou efeito da fortificação (p=0,3). As curvas dos dois grupos mostraram-se acima das referências no primeiro trimestre, com queda a seguir e estabilização no final da gestação. Conclusão: Apesar de não constatar efeito da fortificação, o estudo apresenta variação dos níveis de Hb durante a gravidez, importante para a prática assistencial e avaliação das políticas públicas. 
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Guideline: fortification of food-grade salt with iodine for the prevention and control of iodine deficiency disorders

The proposed guideline aims to help Member States and their partners in their efforts to make informed decisions on the appropriate nutrition actions to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), in particular, reduction of child mortality (MDG 4) and improvement of maternal health (MDG 5). It will also support Member States in their efforts to achieve global targets on the Comprehensive implementation plan on maternal, infant and young child nutrition and in the Global action plan for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases 2013­2020, as approved in resolution WHA66.10 in 2013, including the voluntary global targets on salt reduction. This guideline is intended for a wide audience, including policy-makers; their expert advisers; and technical and programme staff at organizations involved in the design, implementation and scaling-up of salt-iodization programmes, and in nutrition actions for public health. Engagement and commitment of the private sector can benefit fortification efforts and the implementation process.

Home fortification of foods with multiple micronutrient powders for health and nutrition in children under two years of age (Review).

BACKGROUND: Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, particularly those of iron, vitamin A and zinc, affect more than two billion people worldwide. Young children are highly vulnerable because of rapid growth and inadequate dietary practices. Micronutrient powders (MNP) are single-dose packets containing multiple vitamins and minerals in powder form that can be sprinkled onto any semi-solid food.The use of MNP for home or point-of-use fortification of complementary foods has been proposed as an intervention for improving micronutrient intake in children under two years of age. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects and safety of home (point-of-use) fortification of foods with multiple micronutrient powders on nutritional, health and developmental outcomes in children under two years of age. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the following databases in February 2011: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library), MEDLINE (1948 to week 2 February 2011), EMBASE (1980 to Week 6 2011), CINAHL (1937 to current), CPCI-S (1990 to 19 February 2011), Science Citation Index (1970 to 19 February 2011), African Index Medicus (searched 23 February 2011), POPLINE (searched 21 February 2011), ClinicalTrials.gov (searched 23 February 2011), mRCT (searched 23 February 2011), and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) (searched 23 February 2011). We also contacted relevant organisations (25 January 2011) for the identification of ongoing and unpublished studies. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included randomised and quasi-randomised trials with either individual or cluster randomisation. Participants were children under the age of two years at the time of intervention, with no specific health problems. The intervention was consumption of food fortified at the point of use with multiple micronutrient powders formulated with at least iron, zinc and vitamin A compared with placebo, no intervention or the use of iron containing supplements, which is the standard practice. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two review authors independently assessed the eligibility of studies against the inclusion criteria, extracted data from included studies and assessed the risk of bias of the included studies. MAIN RESULTS: We included eight trials (3748 participants) conducted in low income countries in Asia, Africa and the Caribbean, where anaemia is a public health problem. The interventions lasted between two and 12 months and the powder formulations contained between five and 15 nutrients. Six trials compared the use of MNP versus no intervention or a placebo and the other two compared the use of MNP versus daily iron drops. Most of the included trials were assessed as at low risk of bias. Home fortification with MNP reduced anaemia by 31% (six trials, RR 0.69; 95% CI 0.60 to 0.78) and iron deficiency by 51% (four trials, RR 0.49; 95% CI 0.35 to 0.67) in infants and young children when compared with no intervention or placebo, but we did not find an effect on growth. In comparison with daily iron supplementation, the use of MNP produced similar results on anaemia (one trial, RR 0.89; 95% CI 0.58 to 1.39) and haemoglobin concentrations (two trials, MD -2.36 g/L; 95% CI -10.30 to 5.58); however, given the limited amount of data these results should be interpreted cautiously. No deaths were reported in the trials and information on side effects and morbidity, including malaria, was scarce. It seems that the use of MNP is efficacious among infants and young children six to 23 months of age living in settings with different prevalences of anaemia and malaria endemicity, regardless of whether the intervention lasts two, six or 12 months or whether recipients are male or female. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Home fortification of foods with multiple micronutrient powders is an effective intervention to reduce anaemia and iron deficiency in children six months to 23 months of age. The provision of MNP is better than no intervention or placebo and possibly comparable to commonly used daily iron supplementation. The benefits of this intervention as a child survival strategy or on developmental outcomes are unclear. Data on effects on malaria outcomes are lacking and further investigation of morbidity outcomes is needed. The micronutrient powders containing multiple nutrients are well accepted but adherence is variable and in some cases comparable to that achieved in infants and young children receiving standard iron supplements as drops or syrups.

Níveis de hemoglobina e prevalência de anemia em gestantes atendidas em unidades básicas de saúde, antes e após a fortificação das farinhas com ferro / Hemoglobin levels and prevalence of anemia in pregnant women assisted in primary health care services, before and after fortification of flour / Hemoglobin levels and prevalence of anemia in pregnant women assisted in primary health care services, before and after fortification of flour*

Avaliaram-se níveis de hemoglobina-Hb e prevalência de anemia em gestantes, antes e após a fortificação das farinhas. Estudo de avaliação do tipo antes e depois, com amostras populacionais independentes, realizado em unidades básicas de saúde de Maringá, PR. Foram avaliados 366 prontuários de gestantes Antes da fortificação obrigatória das farinhas, e 419 Após a fortificação. Gestantes com Hb < 11g/dL foram consideradas anêmicas. Realizou-se análise de regressão linear múltipla. Verificou-se baixa prevalência de anemia que afetava 12,3% e 9,4% das gestantes, Antes e Após a fortificação (p > 0,05), porém o Grupo Após a fortificação obrigatória apresentou média de Hb mais elevada (p < 0,05). Evidenciou-se associação entre Hb e Grupo, idade gestacional, gestação anterior, ocupação e situação conjugal (p < 0,05). Embora a fortificação de farinhas possa ter um papel no aumento da média de hemoglobina, é preciso considerar a contribuição de outras variáveis não investigadas.

We evaluated hemoglobin-Hb levels and prevalence of anemia in pregnant women before and after fortification of flour. It was developed a study to evaluate intervention, of the type before and after, with independent population samples. Study was conducted in primary health care services in Maringá, PR. We assessed 366 and 419 medical records, Before and After implementation of fortification. Pregnant women with Hb < 11g/dL were considered anemic. Data were submitted to multiple linear regression analysis. There was low prevalence of anemia affecting 12.3% and 9.4% pregnant women Before and After fortification (p > 0.05), but the Group After the fortification had higher Hb levels (p < 0.05). Hb levels associated with Group, gestational age, previous pregnancy number, employment and marital status (p < 0.05). Although the fortification of flour may have had role in increasing the mean hemoglobin, we need consider the contribution of other variables not investigated.

Peru's national folic acid fortification program and its effect on neural tube defects in Lima / Programa nacional del Perú de fortificación con ácido fólico y su efecto sobre los defectos del tubo neural en Lima

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of Peru's national folic acid fortification program on folic acid content in wheat flour, and the effect on birth prevalence of neural tube defects (NTDs) in Lima, and to compare the program's legislative requirements with international standards. METHODS: Bread was sampled from six sites across Peru and tested for folic acid. Data were obtained from the largest obstetric hospital in Lima on the prevalence of births (live and still) with NTDs during both the pre-fortification period (2004-2005) and post-fortification years (2007-2008). RESULTS: Folic acid content in the sampled bread met national legislative requirements but was less than one-half of the level recommended for Peru by the World Health Organization (WHO) (2.6 mg/kg wheat flour). Birth prevalence of NTDs was 18.4/10 000 in the pre-fortification period and 20.0/10 000 during post-fortification years. Relative risk for NTDs after fortification was 1.02 (95% confidence interval 0.77-1.35, P = 0.90). CONCLUSIONS: Peruvian legislative requirements for folic acid fortification are below international (WHO) recommendations; birth prevalence of NTDs in Lima is higher than international benchmarks; and no decrease in NTDs following fortification of flour with folic acid (according to Peruvian national standards) was observed. As increasing the level of folic acid in flour remains the most sustainable way of preventing NTDs, it is recommended that Peru increase its folic acid fortification requirements to meet those recommended by WHO (2.6 mg/kg).

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la repercusión que el programa nacional del Perú de fortificación con ácido fólico tiene en el contenido de ácido fólico de la harina de trigo y en la prevalencia de nacimientos de niños con defectos del tubo neural en Lima, así como comparar los requisitos legislativos del programa con las normas internacionales. MÉTODOS: Se hizo un muestreo del pan en seis zonas de Perú y se analizó su contenido de ácido fólico. Se obtuvieron datos del mayor hospital obstétrico de Lima referentes a la prevalencia de nacimientos de niños vivos o mortinatos con defectos del tubo neural durante el período anterior a la fortificación (2004-2005) y el posterior a la misma (2007-2008). RESULTADOS: El contenido de ácido fólico en las muestras de pan obtenidas satisfizo los requisitos legislativos nacionales, si bien fue inferior a la mitad de la concentración que la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) recomienda para el Perú (2,6 mg/kg de harina de trigo). La prevalencia de nacimientos de niños con defectos del tubo neural fue de 18,4/10 000 en el período anterior a la fortificación y de 20,0/10 000 en los años posteriores a la fortificación. El riesgo relativo de los defectos del tubo neural después de la fortificación fue de 1,02 (intervalo de confianza de 95%: 0,77-1,35; P = 0,90). CONCLUSIONES: Los valores que la legislación peruana exige en lo que respecta a la fortificación con ácido fólico son inferiores a los que se recomiendan internacionalmente (OMS). La prevalencia de nacimientos de niños con defectos del tubo neural en Lima es superior a las cifras de referencia internacionales. Por otra parte, no se observó ninguna disminución de los defectos del tubo neural después de fortificar la harina con ácido fólico (según los valores normalizados nacionales peruanos). Dado que el aumento de la concentración de ácido fólico en la harina sigue siendo la manera más sostenible de prevenir los defectos del tubo neural, se recomienda que el Perú haga más estrictos los requisitos relativos a la fortificación con ácido fólico para ajustarse a los valores recomendados por la OMS (2,6 mg/kg).

Elaboración de un alimento con base en harina de banano (Musa paradisiaca) fortificada con hierro y zinc aminoquelados, calcio microencapsulado y folato / Development of a banana (Musa paradisiaca) flour-based food fortified with aminochelated iron and zinc, microencapsulated calcium and folate

Objetivo: elaborar un alimento enriquecido con hierro y zinc aminoquelados, calcio microencapsulado y folato para consumo humano. Materiales y métodos: se empleó banano de rechazo de la zona de Urabá (Antioquia-Colombia), maduro al 50%; goma arábiga, maltodextrina, ácido cítrico y ascórbico, folato, calcio lácteo microencapsulado, zinc y hierro aminoquelados, sabor artificial, colorantes y conservantes. Se deshidrató mediante secado por aspersión. Se realizaron cinco ensayos de mezclas para someter a diferentes temperaturas de secado por aspersión, se obtuvieron cinco lotes de producto. Los lotes fueron sometidos a análisis bromatológicos, microbiológicos, microscopia óptica, pruebas de aceptabilidad y estudio in vitro de digestibilidad. Resultados: todos los lotes presentaron características sensoriales y bromatológicas muy similares, pero el mejor evaluado en la prueba de aceptabilidad fue el número cuatro, que correspondió al sometido a temperaturas de entrada y de salida con un rango de variación de 110°C, cuyo aporte nutricional está dentro de los rangos propuestos inicialmente; su sabor fue uno de los de mayor aceptación por los consumidores y la microcápsula presentaba mejor caracterización. Conclusiones: se obtuvo una harina suelta, de fácil dilución, enriquecida con micronutrientes y con un buen contenido de carbohidratos, leve sabor a banano, color amarillo claro, además se obtuvo una microesfera de calcio y un producto de buena aceptación para consumo inmediato.

Objective: to develop a food enriched with aminochelated iron and zinc, micro-encapsulated calcium and folate for human consumption. Materials an methods: we used banana non optimal for exportation from Urabá (Antioquia- Colombia), 50% mature, arabic gum, maltodextrin, citric acid and ascorbic acid, microencapsulated milk calcium, aminochelated iron and zinc, artificial flavor, food colorants and preservatives. The product was dehydrated using a spraydrying process. Five samples of blends were subject to different temperatures by spray drying, obtaining five batches of product. The lots were subjected to bromatological and microbiology analysis, optical microscopy, acceptability testing and in vitro studies for digestibility. Results: all the batches had sensory and qualitative characteristics very similar, but the best item in the acceptability test was the number four, which corresponds to the one subjected to temperatures of input and output with a variation range of 110°C, which nutritional value is within originally proposed ranges, its flavor was one of the most widely accepted by consumers, and the microcapsule had better characterization. Conclusions: we obtained a loose flour product, easy to dilute, enriched with micronutrients and with a good carbohydrates content, mild banana flavor, and light yellow color. Additionally, we obtained a microsphere of calcium and a well accepted product for immediate consumption.

Double-blind randomized controlled trial of rolls fortified with microencapsulated iron / Estudo duplo-cego randomizado controlado com pães fortificados com ferro microencapsulado

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the impact of the fortification of rolls with microencapsulated iron sulfate with sodium alginate on the hemoglobin levels in preschoolers as compared to controls. METHODS: Double-blind randomized controlled trial comprised of children aged 2 to 6 years with initial hemoglobin exceeding 9 g/dL from four not-for-profit daycares randomly selected in the city of São Paulo - Brazil. Children of 2 daycares (n = 88) received rolls with fortified wheat flour as the exposed group (EC) and children of 2 daycares (n = 85) received rolls without fortification as the control group (CG) over a 24-week period. Rolls with 4 mg iron each were offered once a day, five days a week. Hemoglobin concentrations were determined in capillary blood by HemoCue® at three moments of trial: baseline (Ml), after 12 and 24 weeks of intervention (M2, M3). RESULTS: Hemoglobin concentration presented significant increase up to M3 in EG (11.7-12.5-12.6 g/dL) and in CG (11.1-12.4-12.3 g/dL) with higher elevations in children initially with anemia. There was significant reduction in the occurrence of anemia from 22 percent to 9 percent in EG and from 47 percent to 8.2 percent in CG at M3. CONCLUSION: Rolls fortified with microencapsulated iron sulfate were well tolerated, increased hemoglobin levels and reduced the occurrence of anemia, but with no difference compared to the control group.

OBJETIVO: A deficiência de ferro é a carência nutricional mais frequente no Brasil, tendo como principal etiologia a baixa ingestão do mineral. A fortificação alimentar é medida sustentável e de melhor custo-benefício para a prevenção e controle. O objetivo foi avaliar o impacto da fortificação de pães com sulfato ferroso microencapsulado com alginato de sódio sobre os níveis de hemoglobina em pré-escolares, comparados com controles. MÉTODOS: Estudo duplo-cego randomizado controlado incluindo crianças de 2 a 6 anos com hemoglobina inicial maior que 9 g/dL procedentes de 4 creches filantrópicas selecionadas aleatoriamente, São Paulo - Brasil. Crianças de 2 creches (n = 88) receberam pães com farinha de trigo fortificada, constituindo o grupo exposto (EC), e de outras 2 creches (n = 85) receberam pães não fortificados, compondo o grupo-controle (CG), durante 24 semanas. Pães contendo 4 mg de ferro foram oferecidos uma vez ao dia, cinco dias por semana. As concentrações de hemoglobina foram determinadas no sangue capilar por HemoCue® em três momentos do estudo: momento inicial (M1), após 12 e 24 semanas da intervenção (M2, M3). RESULTADOS: A concentração de hemoglobina apresentou aumento significativo até M3 no EG (11,7-12,5-12,6 g/dL) e no CG (11,1-12,4-12,3 g/dL) com maiores elevações nas crianças inicialmente anêmicas. Houve redução significativa na ocorrência de anemia de 22 por cento a 9 por cento no EG e de 47 por cento a 8,2 por cento no CG em M3. CONCLUSÃO: Os pães fortificados com sulfato ferroso microencapsulado foram bem tolerados, elevando os níveis de hemoglobina e reduzindo a ocorrência de anemia, porém sem diferenças em relação ao grupo-controle.

Universal iron fortification of foods: the view of a hematologist.

With the objective of reducing the high incidence of iron deficiency anemia, the Brazilian National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) adopted Resolution 344 in December 2002, which made the addition of iron and folic acid to all industrialized wheat and maize flours in Brazil compulsory. After a series of doubts about this universal measure of food fortification, a review of case reports on long-term medicinal iron intake published in the medical literature was undertaken to investigate the clinical behavior of this hematological conduct. Long-term medicinal iron ingestion is an extremely rare and serious situation. The data suggest that there are cases of hemochromatosis in women whose illnesses were accelerated with this therapy. It is very difficult to determine the amount of iron ingested by Brazilian citizens in the current system of fortification, but there is evidence that there has been an appreciable increase. Although iron fortification of food has been recognized by some authors as a good strategy to combat iron deficiency, some nation shave abandoned this measure. The patient with hemochromatosis is the most affected by compulsory iron fortification and as this disease is now considered a public health problem, we believe that Resolution 344 of ANVISA should be reviewed in order to find a solution beneficial to all segments of the Brazilian population; one should not try to correct one condition (iron deficiency) by exacerbating another (acceleration of iron overload cases).

Universal iron fortification of foods: the view of a hematologist

With the objective of reducing the high incidence of iron deficiency anemia, the Brazilian National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) adopted Resolution 344 in December 2002, which made the addition of iron and folic acid to all industrialized wheat and maize flours in Brazil compulsory. After a series of doubts about this universal measure of food fortification, a review of case reports on long-term medicinal iron intake published in the medical literature was undertaken to investigate the clinical behavior of this hematological conduct. Long-term medicinal iron ingestion is an extremely rare and serious situation. The data suggest that there are cases of hemochromatosis in women whose illnesses were accelerated with this therapy. It is very difficult to determine the amount of iron ingested by Brazilian citizens in the current system of fortification, but there is evidence that there has been an appreciable increase. Although iron fortification of food has been recognized by some authors as a good strategy to combat iron deficiency, some nation shave abandoned this measure. The patient with hemochromatosis is the most affected by compulsory iron fortification and as this disease is now considered a public health problem, we believe that Resolution 344 of ANVISA should be reviewed in order to find a solution beneficial to all segments of the Brazilian population; one should not try to correct one condition (iron deficiency) by exacerbating another (acceleration of iron overload cases).

Preferencia y aceptabilidad de la variedad de arroz IACuba 30 con alto contenido de hierro y zinc por mujeres gestantes en Cuba / Sensory evaluation of the high-iron and -zinc rice variety IACuba 30 among pregnant women in Cuba

Objetivo: al introducir un alimento al mercado o cambiar algún aspecto se requieren pruebas sensoriales para asegurar su aceptación por el grupo al cual va dirigido el alimento. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la preferencia y aceptabilidad de la variedad de arroz IACuba 30 con alto contenido de hierro y zinc por mujeres gestantes, empleando como testigo una variedad de arroz importada que se consume diariamente. Materiales y metódos: se realizó la evaluación de la aceptabilidad de las características organolépticas textura, olor, color y sabor del arroz IACuba 30 comparado con una variedad de consumo local, por 98 gestantes del municipio de Bauta la y aceptabilidad de las características organolépticas, mediante una escala hedónica de cuatro categorías, también se evaluó la preferencia entre estas dos variedades. Resultados: 73,5% de las gestantes participantes en la prueba prefirieron la variedad IACuba 30 frente al testigo (p<0,05). Así mismo, para las cuatro características organolépticas evaluadas (textura, olor, color y sabor), el número de madres que respondieron ''me gusta'' y ''me gusta mucho'' sumaron más de 80% en todos los casos, con diferencias estadísticas entre el valor observado con referencia al esperado (p<0,05). Conclusiones: la variedad IACuba 30 es una buena candidata para promover su consumo en la isla y contribuir con el manejo y prevención de anemia e incrementar el aporte de zinc.

Objective: prior to introducing a new food on the market or changing any aspect of a food, sensory tests with the target group for that food are important. The objective of this study was to test the acceptability and preference for the nutritionally enhanced rice variety IACuba 30, compared with an imported variety that is consumed daily by pregnant women. Materials and methods: the sensory tests were completed with 98 pregnant women in the Bauta municipality. Acceptability of texture, smell, color and taste were assessed for both rice varieties using a hedonic scale with four categories. The preference for one variety over the other was also assessed. Results: 73,5% of the women preferred IACuba 30 over the comparison rice (p<0,05). For the four organoleptic characteristics evaluated (texture, smell, color and taste), more than 80% of women responded ''I like'' and ''I like very much''; the observed values were statistically different from the expected values (p<0,05). Conclusions: results confirm that IACuba 30 is a good candidate to be grown and eaten as a greater nutritional source that can contribute to addressing the problem of anemia and increasing zinc intake on the Island.