Feasibility of Soil Enrichment in Line With Supplementary Aid Programs in the Eleven Climate Zones of Iran



Moradipour F¹ ; Mahdavi Damghani AM¹ ; Aghamir F¹ ; Vahid Dastjardi M² ; Mahmoudi H¹
Source: Iranian Journal of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology Published:2023

Abstract

Background and Objectives: A recent report from the United Nation indicates that Iran is witnessing a relative decrease in the prevalence of hunger and an increase in malnutrition. Soil enrichment along with supplementation is one of the simple strategies, away from pollution, available for all people, accessible and profitable, it has the ability to prevent or control nutritional deficiencies. Investigating the relationship between malnutrition and the lack of soil nutrients in Iran's high-risk climates is necessary in line with the soil enrichment program. Materials & Methods: The aims of this study were to improve understanding of the relationships between the lack of soil nutrients and the health of population groups, including blood parameters and anthropometric profiles, in various ages and physiology stages (children, adolescents, pregnant and middle-aged women), separated by gender and region (cities and villages) in 11 climate zones of Iran by suggesting a system of assessment indicators and compare multi-factor analyses in heterogeneous variables of various natures. Results: Findings have shown that the highest synthesis index of anemia in the target groups of the Iranian population was linked to the lack of Fe in soil in all the target groups, lack of vitamin D was linked to the lack of P in soil and lack of Zn was associated to the lack of Zn in the soil. With limited supplementary aids, there are still challenges of soil fertility and malnutrition in provinces of Sistan and Baluchistan, South Khorasan, East Kerman, Bushehr, Hormozgan and Khuzestan. Conclusion: In conclusion, maps of high-risk regions as well as bioenrichment and supplementary aids are suggested. © 2023, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute. All rights reserved.