Fortification:
The fortification of staple foods such as wheat or other grains is likely to increase iron intake for those populations that have
access to them. However, infants and children who have a limited capacity to eat large quantities of fortified food are not likely
to benefit significantly form this strategy. Targeted fortification (for example, the fortification of weaning foods specifically
eaten by infants and children) as is practiced by the developed world, is an excellent way to increase the intake of iron in children.
However, fortified commercially prepared infant foods are relatively expensive and may not be affordable for many families with
children at highest risk of iron deficiency (Taken from Zlotkin, 2002-Editorial Current Issues for the prevention of iron deficiency
anemia).
Dietary Diversification:
Dietary diversification involves promotion of a diet with a wider variety of iron-containing foods, especially meat or fish. This
intervention is often not possible among the poor populations of the developing world due to the high cost of foods rich in
bioavailable iron (Taken from: Zlotkin, 2002-Editorial).
Supplementation:
The final approach is through supplementation of individuals or communities at risk. For infants and young children, this approach is the most likely to succeed. Supplementation may be the best way to reach infants and young children in families that cant afford expensive iron-containing or fortified foods. Challenges with supplementation however include compliance and adequate distribution of the supplement.
