Speakers discuss the challenges and opportunities in food fortification at a forum in HCM City on Thursday. — VNS Photo Bồ Xuân Hiệp

HCM CITY — Việt Nam is facing the dual challenges of micronutrient deficiencies and malnutrition, which are having severe impacts on the productivity and health of its population, particularly children, experts said at a meeting in HCM City on Thursday.

Speaking at the forum, Ernest Bethe, the Agribusiness Advisory Manager for Asia at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), said micronutrient deficiencies and malnutrition are major global health challenges that have significant negative effects on health, human capital, and child development.

These issues also result in billions of dollars in lost productivity and healthcare expenses globally each year, he added.

“In Việt Nam, the impact on the health and development of the population, especially children, is severe and demands attention.”

According to a report by UNICEF, an estimated 19.6 per cent of children under five in Việt Nam are affected by micronutrient deficiencies.

The Southeast Asian nation is among 34 countries facing the highest burden of chronic malnutrition, impacting 1.8 million children under the age of five and posing a risk to their physical and cognitive development.

Experts recommended introducing food fortification as a means to improve physical and mental health and increase the competitiveness of food producers in the industry.

Food fortification can help reduce healthcare costs and create new private sector business opportunities, they noted.

Natia Mgeladze, the lead for IFC Global Food Fortification Advisory, talks to Việt Nam News about the impact of food fortification in addressing micronutrient deficiencies and malnutrition in Việt Nam. — VNS Photo Bồ Xuân Hiệp

Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Natia Mgeladze, the lead for IFC Global Food Fortification Advisory, told Việt Nam News: “Food fortification is a cost-effective way to bring vital micronutrients to vulnerable populations without requiring changes in food or eating behaviours.”

Việt Nam has committed to sustainable agriculture and food systems as stated in its National Action Plan to transition to a transparent, responsible, and sustainable food system by 2030.

The forum, titled “Fortifying the Future: Challenges and Opportunities in Food Fortification,” was organised by IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, in partnership with the Japanese Government and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

It brought together key stakeholders in the agribusiness sector to share insights and discuss opportunities for adopting fortification.

The one-day event also discussed lessons learned from global food fortification initiatives and practical solutions for fortifying food. — VNS