Blog Posts
Ethiopia pioneers double-fortified salt to prevent neural tube defects
March 31, 2026
This article examines the introduction of double-fortified salt (iodized salt with added iron) within large-scale social safety net programmes in India, focusing on implementation experiences in states such as Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. It explores how the intervention can be delivered through existing public distribution systems and assesses operational feasibility, coverage, and early programme learnings. The findings highlight the potential of double-fortified salt as a scalable, food-based strategy to improve iron intake and reduce the risk of anaemia at population level, while also underscoring key delivery considerations such as supply chain readiness, procurement systems and coordination across implementing partners.