WHO launches manual for monitoring flour fortification

Fortification programmes must be monitored to confirm that they are working effectively

World Health Organization (WHO)- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety has launched a manual for millers, regulators, and programme managers to monitor flour fortification.

This manual distinguishes two main categories of monitoring: regulatory monitoring and household or consumption monitoring. Regulatory monitoring includes four subtypes of monitoring: internal, external, import, and commercial, which collectively aim to provide consumers with fortified flour that is of high quality, safe, and adequately fortified. Consumption monitoring involves households and their members.

The use of standardized monitoring indicators can facilitate comparison of results and sharing of knowledge across programmes worldwide. In brief, this manual aims to: present a general monitoring framework to assist with the design and implementation of monitoring systems for flour fortification programmes; facilitate the use of standard WHO/CDC indicators; provide examples of practical tools which may be used for monitoring purposes; highlight relevant examples from existing fortification programmes; and serve as a resource for training persons involved in the design, implementation, and management of flour fortification monitoring systems.