Experts Question India's Proposed Double-Fortified Salt Strategy to Address Anaemia

Anaemia is a major public-health concern in India, particularly among women and children. It occurs when the blood does not have enough healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin to carry adequate oxygen to body tissues. Iron deficiency is one important cause, but it is not the only one.

Double-fortified salt combines iodine and iron in a commonly used food product. The approach is intended to improve micronutrient intake at population level. However, public-health specialists have raised concerns about whether expanding this intervention without identifying the underlying causes of anaemia will adequately address the problem.

The experts point out that vitamin B12 deficiency, infections, chronic diseases, sickle cell disease and thalassaemia can also contribute to anaemia. Iron fortification alone cannot correct these conditions. They also emphasise that people with certain inherited blood disorders may require specific medical assessment before receiving additional iron.

The debate highlights the importance of combining nutritional interventions with screening, accurate diagnosis, treatment and access to nutrient-rich foods. The report does not establish that double-fortified salt is ineffective; rather, it raises questions about using fortification as a broad solution without addressing other causes.