Community acceptability and utilization of micronutrient powders in Bihar, India

Abstract only Multiple micronutrient powders (MMPs) represent an innovative solution to reduce anemia and perhaps improve complementary feeding (CF) practices. The objective of this pilot was to examine community acceptability and utilization of MMPs to inform the design of a randomized‐control tria...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:	The FASEB journal Vol. 27; no. S1
Main Authors:	Young, Melissa Fox, Kekre, Priya, Verma, Pankaj, Srikantiah, Sridhar, Majumdar, Amlan, Trehan, Shamik, Das, Arup Kumar, Chaudhuri, Indrajit, Sheth, Meggha, Webb‐Girard, Amy, Ramakrishnan, Usha, Martorell, Reynaldo
Format:	Journal Article
Language:	English
Published:	01-04-2013
Online Access:	Get full text
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Summary:	Abstract only Multiple micronutrient powders (MMPs) represent an innovative solution to reduce anemia and perhaps improve complementary feeding (CF) practices. The objective of this pilot was to examine community acceptability and utilization of MMPs to inform the design of a randomized‐control trial in Bihar, India. A 10 day pilot study of acceptability was conducted in 27 households with children ages 6–24 months. Households were counseled on MMP product use and age appropriate CF. In‐depth interviews with caregivers were conducted on three occasions (day 0, 5, and 10). MMP use was high regardless of caste, religion or age of child (100% tried product at least once, 84% had complete compliance). Caregivers reported overall ease of use of product and agreed there was a need for MMPs in the community. Caregiver's perceptions of MMPs were generally favorable and many even reported improved child appetite, CF practices and well‐being of the children. Two households felt MMP causes loose stools and reported negative experiences. Potential barriers identified were misconceptions that MMP would have immediate benefits in reducing illness. Formative research informed the development of locally appropriate visual aids/counseling materials. MMPs integrated with CF counseling are a promising locally acceptable intervention to improve child nutrition in Bihar. Funding provided by a BMGF grant through a subcontract with CARE‐India.
ISSN:	0892-6638 1530-6860
DOI:	10.1096/fasebj.27.1_supplement.lb271