Document Detail


Scientific research: essential, but is it enough to combat world food insecurities?
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  12730437     Owner:  NLM     Status:  MEDLINE    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
Food and nutrition insecurity, which affects an estimated 815 million households (the majority in developing countries), is in large part due to micronutrient deficiencies. The magnitude of the problem, causes, consequences and cost-effective solutions elucidated by scientists over the last few decades changed perceptions and drew political commitments in the 1990s to alleviate micronutrient deficiencies. Prevalence was reduced for iodine and vitamin A deficiency disorders largely through mandated universal fortification of salt with iodine and wide distribution of vitamin A supplements associated with immunization campaigns. Less progress was achieved in the control of iron deficiency. The challenge now is to move forward with interventions that are sustainable within the context of vulnerable communities, which possibly include applied biotechnology to enhance yields and micronutrient contents of staple foods. Scientific progress and political commitment are key factors, but consumer and public acceptance is key to sustainable progress. Achieving public confidence requires increased partnerships among scientists, policymakers, community leaders and consumers in the decision-making processes.
Authors:
Barbara A Underwood
Related Documents :
21069437 - Accessory food factors: understanding the catalytic function.
15023587 - Combat rations and military performance - do soldiers on active service eat enough?
17090117 - Bioaccessibility of carotenoids and vitamin e from their main dietary sources.
2017427 - Investigations on the effect of traditional food processing, preservation and storage m...
16493957 - Prevalence of campylobacter and salmonella species on farm, after transport, and at pro...
15548347 - Food store access and household fruit and vegetable use among participants in the us fo...
Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article; Review    
Journal Detail:
Title:  The Journal of nutrition     Volume:  133     ISSN:  0022-3166     ISO Abbreviation:  J. Nutr.     Publication Date:  2003 May 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2003-05-05     Completed Date:  2003-06-12     Revised Date:  2008-11-21    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  0404243     Medline TA:  J Nutr     Country:  United States    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  1434S-7S     Citation Subset:  IM    
Affiliation:
Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine, National Academies, Washington, DC 20001, USA. bunderwo@adnc.com
Export Citation:
APA/MLA Format     Download EndNote     Download BibTex
MeSH Terms
Descriptor/Qualifier:
Food Supply*
Humans
Nutritional Physiological Phenomena*
Public Health
Research / trends*
World Health*

From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine


Previous Document:  Trace elements and nitric oxide function.
Next Document:  Underwood Memorial Lecture: human zinc homeostasis: good but not perfect.