Efficacy of multi-micronutrient fortified biscuits on urinary iodine levels of adolescent girls from Jaipur, India.

INTRODUCTION

Iodine deficiency disorders are a public health problem in India. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of multi-micronutrient-fortified biscuits on urinary iodine levels of adolescent girls (n = 51, 10-16 years) studying in a government school in Jaipur city, India.

METHODS

The study was designed as an intervention study. Biscuits fortified with 150 mcg iodine, 30 mg iron, 100 mcg folic acid, 600 mcg vitamin A and 40 mg vitamin C were provided daily to the subjects on all working days over a 4-month period. The iodine status of the adolescent girls was determined through urinary iodine levels.

RESULTS

Supplementation with biscuits resulted in a significant increase in the mean urinary iodine level from 118.2 to 157.2 mcg/l and in the median value from 121 to 149 mcg/l. Prior to the intervention, 21.6% of the subjects had mild iodine deficiency but at the end of the intervention period, all the girls were iodine sufficient. Hence, iodine supplementation using biscuits resulted in improved iodine status of Indian adolescent girls.

CONCLUSION

It is, therefore, recommended that the school system be used for micronutrient supplementation interventions to improve the nutritional status of children and adolescents as there is more regimentation in a school setting for distribution of nutrient fortified food products to students.