Introduction

Double Fortified Salt (DFS) contains iron + iodine and offers an affordable, scalable approach to address micronutrient deficiencies.

Potential

• Anaemia control: Addresses iron deficiency while preventing iodine deficiency disorders.
• Wide reach: Builds on India’s Universal Salt Iodisation system, reaching diverse households.
• Evidence-based: Studies indicate improved iron status + reduced anaemia.
• Cost-effective: Estimated cost of ₹14–₹20 per person annually.
• Economic gains: Better health → improved productivity + lower healthcare costs.

Challenges

• Uneven adoption: Limited integration across States’ PDS networks.
• Quality assurance: Requires consistent manufacturing + regulatory monitoring.
• Low awareness: Consumer acceptance + market availability need improvement.
• Multiple causes: Anaemia also results from infections, genetic disorders + other nutritional deficiencies.

Way Forward

• Scale-up: Expand DFS through PDS, PM POSHAN + ICDS.
• Funding: Ensure dedicated financing + inter-State coordination.
• Safeguards: Continue screening, treatment + haemoglobinopathy testing.
• Public health: Combine DFS with dietary diversification and sodium-reduction awareness.

Conclusion

DFS can strengthen Anaemia Mukt Bharat and support Viksit Bharat 2047, provided it complements comprehensive anaemia prevention and treatment.