Multiple micronutrients powder

General information

Multiple Micronutrient Powder (MNP) are used by humanitarian agencies, Ministry of health, governmental and non-governmental organizations for the prevention of acute malnutrition. MNP are designed for point of use fortification of complementary foods for children and vulnerable populations to address anemia and other vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Multiple Micronutrient Powder (MNP) for children 6–59 months are used as Micronutrient supplementation/food fortification in emergencies in complementary foods for breast-fed infants and for young children where dietary micronutrient intakes are insufficient. Multiple micronutrient powder (MNP) is used for children 6–59 months of age. This is not a replacement for any additional nutritional interventions, which shall continue alongside use of this product. Breastfeeding should be encouraged to be continued if MNPs are part of a complementary diet for the infant.

The product consists of fine, off white, slightly yellow, speckled, odorless granular powder, having a bland taste which has minimal impact on the taste, smell or color of the food when mixed.

MNP are packed in single-use 1 gram sachets, (packs of 30 sachets). The sachet contents should be mixed with a small portion of solid or semi-solid food just before serving. Children aged 6-59 months shall be given one dose (i.e. one sachet) each day. The sachet should not be used if torn or damaged. Frequency of supplementation: at minimum, for a period of 2 months, followed by a period of 3–4 months off supplementation, so that use of micronutrient powders is started every 6 months.

MNP have a shelf life of 24 months from date of production.

The product should be stored in dry ambient conditions below 25°C to maintain the full shelf-life of the product. Main risk is the degradation of the vitamins. The products should be stored in tightly closed original packaging, protect from moisture and should be kept out of reach and sight of children

Storage conditions for MNP are defined as “below 25°C” by all manufacturers.  However, stability data indicates that products can tolerate exposure to higher temperatures (<40°C) but not for the full shelf-life of the product.

Nutritional composition

Each one gram sachet contains:

Importation of food is always subject to acceptance from the national authorities, based on their national specifications; to be checked before purchasing.

Impact on the local, national, or regional market availability and prices should be carefully looked at before purchasing large quantities.