Support for the Business Platform for Nutrition Research

This project aims to address under-nutrition in developing countries by supporting the Business Platform for Nutrition Research (the Platform). It seeks to generate evidence and motivate further investment in private sector research and product development related to nutrition. Managed by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) the Platform brings together ten major food pharmaceutical and ingredients companies to define fund and disseminate new research to improve nutrition for poor populations. The research streams include: (1) bioavailability biomarkers and diagnostics to develop iron-fortified products and collect real time data on micronutrient deficiency; (2) integrated delivery models to develop new mechanisms for delivery of nutritious commodities to underserved populations; and (3) consumer behaviour change to define and develop cutting edge cost-effective methodologies and tools to communicate important nutrition practices to the public.

The expected intermediate outcomes for the Business Platform for Nutrition Research include: (1) increased purchase and consumption of micronutrient-rich foods by the poor; and (2) improved ability to detect malnutrition risk and measure benefits of nutrition interventions.