Dec 11, (V7N) - The International Finance Corporation (IFC), in collaboration with the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), hosted its 2nd International Food Fortification Forum in Bangladesh on Tuesday. The event aimed to tackle micronutrient deficiencies, promote best practices, and explore opportunities for scaling up food fortification initiatives. This forum was supported by the Government of Japan and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and brought together leaders from both the public and private sectors.

Addressing Micronutrient Deficiencies

Bangladesh, recognized as a priority country for IFC’s nutrition initiatives, was highlighted as having significant potential to improve public health through targeted nutrition strategies. The 2022 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey emphasized the importance of addressing micronutrient deficiencies, particularly for children under five and women of reproductive age. Food fortification, integrating essential vitamins and minerals into staple foods, was identified as a key strategy to enhance nutrition security and long-term well-being.

Forum Discussions and Stakeholder Engagement

The forum focused on scaling up food fortification, agribusiness innovations, and the role of the private sector in improving nutrition. Key stakeholders included IFC clients, policymakers, development partners, and decision-makers from the food production industry. The event underscored the importance of public-private partnerships to drive forward food fortification initiatives.

IFC’s Role and Commitment

IFC has been a long-time advocate for food fortification, supporting food companies and governments in making nutritious, fortified foods more accessible and affordable. Anup Jagwani, IFC Global Head of Agribusiness, emphasized the organization's commitment to leveraging expertise and fostering partnerships to close the nutrition gap in Bangladesh and beyond. Martin Holtmann, IFC Country Manager for Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal, noted Bangladesh’s progress in food security and stressed the need to now focus on improving nutrition security.

GAIN’s Mission and Approach

Dr. Rudaba Khondker, GAIN Country Director for Bangladesh, highlighted the organization's mission to improve the availability, affordability, and sustainability of nutritious foods, particularly for vulnerable populations. She emphasized that well-designed, consumer-driven food fortification initiatives have proven to enhance health, support human development, and increase productivity.

Future Outlook

The forum reinforced the critical role of food fortification in addressing malnutrition and improving public health outcomes globally. With continued collaboration between stakeholders, including government bodies, private sector participants, and development organizations, food fortification could play a vital role in improving nutrition security in Bangladesh, contributing to sustainable development and better public health.

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