Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ This week, Nigerian authorities are rolling out a new set of standards for adding vital micronutrients iron, zinc, folic acid, and vitamin B12 to stock cubes. These enhancements aim to tackle malnutrition by fortifying a commonly consumed household product, providing essential nutrients to millions of people.
According to Dr. Augustine Okoruwa, Regional Director for Food Fortification at Helen Keller International, “Fortification is the most cost-effective way of adding micronutrients missing in the diet. This strategy ensures that consumers receive vital nutrients through the food they eat.” In Nigeria, micronutrient deficiencies often referred to as “hidden hunger” remain a significant public health issue. Experts believe fortifying widely used products like stock cubes is a practical approach to addressing this challenge.
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes the importance of micronutrients for producing enzymes, hormones, and other substances essential for growth and development. By incorporating these nutrients into everyday foods, the health benefits can be wide-reaching, particularly for low-income families struggling to afford more expensive, nutrient-rich options like meat and fish.
Idowu, a 56-year-old retired public servant, is one of the many Nigerians eagerly anticipating the arrival of the fortified stock cubes. “It will be a huge advantage for the poor like us who cannot afford basic proteins,” she says, highlighting how difficult it is to find affordable protein sources. With prices rising due to transportation costs, she and many others have had to make do with cheaper options and smaller portions. The promise of nutrient-enhanced stock cubes offers hope for improving diets and overall health.
Nigeria has long used food fortification as a strategy to combat malnutrition, with products like wheat flour, edible oil, and sugar already fortified with vitamin A. The addition of four micronutrients to stock cubes represents the country’s most comprehensive fortification initiative to date, setting a new standard in the fight against hidden hunger.
By making these fortified products accessible, Nigeria is taking a critical step toward reducing malnutrition and promoting better public health, particularly among the nation’s most vulnerable populations.
