Use of common salt fortified with iron in the control and prevention of anemia—a collaborative study. Report of the Working Group on Fortification of Salt with Iron

Abstract

The efficacy of salt fortified with iron (FePO₄ and NaHSO₄) to control anemia was investigated by large scale field trials in three rural areas and one urban area located in different parts of India, each covering a total population of 4000 to 6000. Hb levels were determined before the introduction of the fortified salt and at six monthly intervals thereafter. Iron-fortified salt was acceptable to the population and its consumption for a period of 12 to 18 months was without any untoward effects. At the end of 12 to 18 months of consumption of iron-fortified salt, a significant improvement in the Hb-levels and a significant reduction in the incidence of anemia was observed in all the test areas. In one of the rural areas tested, there was a high incidence of hookworm infestation and iron-fortified salt showed a significant impact on Hb levels even in this area. Deworming concomitant with distribution of iron-fortified salt was shown to have only a marginal additional benefit.