Project Name:

Efficacy of three nutritional supplements to improve nutritional status of children under 2 years of age and women, beneficiaries of the Oportunidades poverty alleviation program

Project Category:

Pilot Study

Status of Project:

Status: Ongoing

Implementing Organization:

National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Mexico

Project Coverage:

960 children 6-9 months of age

Donor/Funding Agency:

Ministry of Health Mexico

The Mexican poverty alleviation program, Oportunidades provides a fortified food supplement to all beneficiary children under 2 years of age, and all pregnant and lactating women. The supplements are in the form of a pap for infants (Nutrisano) and a drink for women (Nutrivida). However, nutritional deficiencies persist and there is evidence of a very high prevalence of obesity among beneficiaries. It is not clear whether the supplements are contributing to obesity in these populations. Sprinkles, which are not designed as a source of calories, may therefore be a more valuable option for solving the problem of micronutrient deficiencies in these populations. With this concept in mind, the National Institute of Public Health has designed a study integrating Sprinkles into the current program. The study will take place over one year with the aim to determine whether Sprinkles can alleviate micronutrient deficiencies in this population without contributing to obesity.

To compare the impact of Sprinkles and Nutrisano (Nutrivida for women) using drops (pills for women) as a positive control group, on child growth and development, weight gain and retention in pregnant women, and the micronutrient status of women and children.