Supplementary feeding programs for young children in developing countries
Beaton, G.H.; Ghassemi, H.
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 35(4 Suppl): 863-916
1982
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9165 PMID: 7039297 DOI: 10.1093/ajcn/35.4.864Document Number: 387661
A review of food distribution programs for older infants and young children between the ages of 6 months and 6 years was commissioned by UNICEF and a UN subcommittee. Beneficial effects and costs were examined. Quantitative data was drawn from over 200 research reports. Food distribution programs are expensive for the measured benefit of physicial growth and development. However, there are additional benefits to the family and community that need to be assessed. Intake by the target recipient was 45-70% of the food distributed to families. Food participation rate ranged from 25-80% of the intended level of distribution. Programs were least effective with older infants and young children below age 2. Food distribution systems reduced the prevalence of severe malnutrition and accompanying mortality from infectious diseases. Data did not permit cost/effectiveness comparisons. Most of the programs used imported foods; no evidence was reported that governments were able to change from imported, donated foods to local, purchased foods. Additional studies of the effects of food distribution programs are recommended. (rm)