Priority micronutrient density in foods

Abstract

Despite concerted efforts to improve diet quality and reduce malnutrition, micronutrient deficiencies remain widespread globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries and among population groups with increased needs, where diets are often inadequate in iron, zinc, folate, vitamin A, calcium, and vitamin B12. There is a need to understand the top food sources of these commonly lacking micronutrients, which are essential for optimal health. To fill this critical knowledge gap, we built an aggregated global food composition database and developed an approach to rate foods according to their density in priority micronutrients. We show that the top sources of multiple priority micronutrients are organs, small fish, dark green leafy vegetables, shellfish, beef, goat, eggs, milk, cheese, and canned fish with bones. Lamb, mutton, goat milk, and pork are also good sources, followed by yogurt, fresh fish, pulses, and teff.