Government of Tripura, Tata Trusts launch Double Fortified Salt to tackle anemia concerns in the state

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with the Government of Tripura in 2015 seeks to address iron and iodine deficiencies prevalent amongst the local population, where 48.3% of children, 54.5% of all women and 24.7% of men are diagnosed anemics.

The launch of Double Fortified Salt (DFS), is one aspect of Tata Trusts’ multi-pronged approach to address the issue of malnutrition in India.

This DFS will be included in meals across all Aanganwadis, Primary Health Centres (PHC), and in Mid-Day Meals provided at schools in the region.

Tata Trusts partnered with the government of Tripura and provided technical assistance to identify suppliers of DFS that follow strict compliances and guidelines set out by FSSAI, liaise with the local government machinery and design communication campaigns to adopt DFS and nutrition-rich foods.

Given its universal use, salt is the most appropriate vehicle to provide nutrients through fortification. DFS is a refined, edible, free-flow salt, manufactured to contain iodine and iron; which when consumed by human beings, in the natural course of one’s daily diet, can fight off Iron Deficiency Anemia and Iodine Deficiency Disorders. Iron-fortified iodized salt has been extensively tested and its effectiveness in improving iron statuses and reducing the prevalence of anemia has been clearly demonstrated. Though DFS is not a ‘magic pill’, it is crucial to provide a fillip to the health statistics of vulnerable populations such as expectant mothers, adolescent girls, young children, and new mothers.

At present, the DFS salt will be available through government programs that reach mothers, both expectant and new; young children and adolescent girls - these groups that are most at risk of iron and iodine deficiencies. The incorporation of DFS in mid-day meals, Aanganwadis and PHCs is the first step to better nutrition in Tripura. Going ahead, DFS will be available for purchase at a subsidized rate to the many more families of Tripura through the Public Distribution System (PDS).