Bridging the Protein Gap: How Fish Powder is Fighting Malnutrition in Children
National Nutrition Week, observed annually from September 1 to September 7, emphasizes the theme ‘Nutritious Diets for Everyone.’ Amid this focus on nutrition, this powder, a high-quality protein source derived from dried and powdered fish, has emerged as a promising solution to address protein deficiency, particularly in children. With over 50% of Indian children under the age of five suffering from chronic malnutrition, this powder offers a cost-effective and accessible dietary supplement to tackle the nation’s protein gap.
The Nutritional Powerhouse of Fish Powder
This powder is packed with essential amino acids and is rich in vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids, making it an excellent nutritional supplement. Soumita Biswas, Chief Clinical Nutritionist at Aster RV Hospital, Bengaluru, highlighted the benefits of fish powder, stating that it can significantly enhance the nutritional value of food products for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly. It’s not only affordable and easily accessible but also easy to integrate into various foods, making it an ideal solution for addressing protein deficiency.
A Successful Pilot in Assam: Reducing Malnutrition with Fish Powder
In a pilot project under the Prime Minister’s Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), health officials in Assam’s Kamrup district incorporated fish powder into meals to combat malnutrition. The project, conducted in 2022-23, showed promising results, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma noting a significant reduction in malnutrition among children under 10 years of age. This successful integration of fish powder in Assam highlights its potential to be scaled up nationwide to address protein deficiencies in other regions.
Expert Endorsements and Applications of Fish Powder
Experts like Soumya Swaminathan, former Chief Scientist at the World Health Organization, have advocated for the broader use of fish powder and other marine protein sources to meet protein requirements in children. Fish powder can be used for food fortification, adding protein to products like cereals, soups, and snacks, thereby enhancing their nutritional profile. Additionally, it can serve as a protein-rich feed supplement for poultry, livestock, and aquaculture, promoting healthy growth and development.
Jyoti Khaniojh, a nutritionist at Max Super Speciality Hospital Patparganj, emphasized the benefits of fish powder in supporting children’s growth, cognitive function, and immune health. She noted that fish powder is easy to digest, hypoallergenic, and can seamlessly integrate into various foods, helping bridge protein gaps in picky eaters and those with dietary restrictions.
