Formulation and Evaluation of the Efficacy of Macro- and Micronutrient Sachets on Pregnant Mothers and Children Aged 6-60 Months

Formulation and Production of Macro- and Micronutrient Sachets for Home Fortification and Evaluation of Their Efficacy on Pregnant Mothers and Children Aged 6-60 Months in Sistan Baloochestan

The aim of the present study is formulation and production of sachets containing macronutrients and micronutrients to enrich food at home and evaluate its effectiveness on pregnant mothers and children aged 6 to 60 months living in Sistan and Baluchestan province

This study is conducted in three steps. At first, fortification sachets are formulated and produced in accordance with international recommendations for micronutrients (vitamins A, D, zinc, and iron) and macronutrients for use in normal home conditions. In the second step, efficacy of fortified sachets are evaluate in three subgroups including pregnant mothers, 6-24 months and 2-5 years old children. Nutritional, anthropometrical and biochemical indices are evaluated at the beginning and after 6-9 months intervention. At the third step, costs and cost-effectiveness of the intervention in each of the studied groups in comparison with the usual program for that age group in the health care system of the country is determined.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Pregnant women

   • being in the first trimester of pregnancy
   • free of chronic diseases before pregnancy
   • no intention to change residence until delivery

2. Children 6 to 23 months

   • age 6 to 7 months
   • no intention to change residence or migrate in the next 12 months
   • free of acute or chronic illness

3. Children 2 to 5 years (60-24 months)

   • age 24 to 48 months
   • no intention to change residence or migrate in the next 6-12 months
   • free of acute or chronic diseases

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pregnant women

   • premature termination of pregnancy
   • change of residence before delivery

2. Children 6 to 23 months

   -change of residence before delivery

3. Children 2 to 5 years (60-24 months) -change of residence before delivery