Inter Press Service: Tackle ‘Hidden Hunger’ by Improving Food Systems
Jomo Kwame Sundaram, coordinator for economic and social development at the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization

“…Although the most severe problems of micronutrient malnutrition are found in developing countries, people of all population groups in all regions of the world are affected by some micronutrient deficiencies. … This is a serious impediment to socio-economic development, exacerbating the vicious cycle of malnutrition, underdevelopment, and poverty. … While there is no consensus on a plan to tackle all forms of malnutrition … across the world, the problems are better understood now, with options for addressing malnutrition increasingly known. Preferably, micronutrient requirements should be met through food intake. … There is need for sustained and coordinated international support, including through [the Second International Conference on Nutrition (ICN2)] follow-up efforts, which offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to broaden and deepen political commitment and ensure appropriate, coherent, and sustained efforts against malnutrition in all its forms” (2/29).