An estimated 2 billion people suffer from one or more vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Malnutrition is widespread in both the developed and developing world. The results are individual suffering and costs to societies and economies. People suffering from malnutrition die younger, are sick more often, and have reduced physical and mental abilities. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies are an obstacle to personal achievement and economic development.

The costs to individuals, countries and economies are huge. Malnourished people require (health) care, they learn slower, and they are less productive. The inverse is also true: we know that the poor suffer most from malnutrition, and that by fighting malnutrition we significantly can reduce poverty and stimulate economic development.

The problem is aggravated by the knowledge that much more can be done to prevent malnutrition: there is enough food in the world for everyone, and the know-how and technologies to deliver essential vitamins and minerals to larger groups of people are available. Improving nutrition worldwide is achievable, and necessary to make people, nations and economies stronger, healthier and more productive.