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A tailored, fortified, poultry‐based spread ( Spammy ™) improves vitamin D and B 12 of Guatemalan preschoolers as part of an institutional menu (250.5)
Author(s) -
Hernandez Liza,
Salguero Sylvana,
Bonorden Melissa,
Herreid Richard,
Armas Laura,
Paul Ligi,
Selhub Jacob,
Solomons Noel
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.28.1_supplement.250.5
Subject(s) - micronutrient , medicine , fortification , nutrient , randomized controlled trial , vitamin , nutrition education , environmental health , pediatrics , demography , gerontology , food science , biology , ecology , pathology , sociology
Background: Although the early years of life inherently pose nutritional vulnerability, geographical and cultural determinants dictate distinct patterns of nutrient deficiencies. Thus, tailoring responses holds the promise of more efficient and comprehensive redress. Objective: To assess the efficacy of a poultry‐based spread, fortified with between 20% and 333% of the RDA of 12 selected micronutrients, including vitamins D and B 12 , both shown to be precarious among Guatemalan preschoolers in a previous survey. Methods: A total of 167 preschoolers, aged 4‐7 y were randomized to receive 43 g of fortified (FS) or unfortified (US) Spammy TM during weekdays over 20 wks as part of the institutional breakfast at a faith‐based day‐care center on the outskirts of Guatemala City in a triple‐blinded format. Circulating nutrient status indicators (ferritin, 25(OH)vit D, vitamin B 12 ) were measured at both ends of the trial. Results: Over 75% of the offered spread was consumed on 84% of serving days with no difference between treatment groups. At baseline, blood biomarkers were abnormally low for iron in 20%, vit D in 59% and vit B 12 in 19%. A significant 9% increase in vit D (p<0.0001) and 23% vit B 12 (p=0.0017) with FS, unmatched in the US group, were seen. Conclusion: Regular consumption of a fortified spread during half of the school year support improvement in the status of two nutrients problematic for Guatemalan preschoolers. Grant Funding Source : Supported by McGovern‐Dole Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program and Hormel Foods