Project “Zero Hidden Hunger EU”: Strategies against hidden hunger in vulnerable population groups
Micronutrients such as vitamins, minerals and trace elements are essential. If the body does not have enough of these due to insufficient intake or malabsorption, a micronutrient deficiency occurs, which is known as hidden hunger. This affects health and well-being as it may, for example, lead to a compromised immune system or developmental disorders in children. Certain population groups are at higher risk of micronutrient deficiencies, including children and adolescents, pregnant women, older adults and people affected by social inequalities. To improve the micronutrient supply in vulnerable groups in Europe, the “Zero Hidden Hunger EU” project is developing strategies to counteract micronutrient deficiencies.
Key data and objectives of the “Zero Hidden Hunger EU” project
The “Zero Hidden Hunger EU” project, led by University College Cork, brings together a new European consortium which has received almost ten million euros in funding for research over the period from 2024 to 2027 to combat micronutrient deficiencies in Europe. The MRI is the only German institution participating in this consortium. “Zero Hidden Hunger EU” aims to provide the best possible knowledge for the development of tailored, food-based solutions to ensure adequate micronutrient supply to the population.
Estimating prevalence and healthcare costs
The first step is to determine the micronutrient intake in the population using available biomarker and nutritional data. State-of-the-art techniques such as particularly powerful biomarker analyses will be used. The MRI is supporting the project in this phase by providing data from the German National Nutrition Survey II (NVS II), which provides information on micronutrient intake in various population groups. By including different data sources, the actual prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies can be accurately estimated. Furthermore, the project aims to identify the health costs associated with micronutrient deficiencies, focussing on vulnerable population groups.
Development of tailored solutions
The second part of the “Zero Hidden Hunger EU” project will develop solutions to address micronutrient deficiencies in vulnerable population groups. Based on the best possible evidence, context-specific, nutrition-orientated strategies will be developed to ensure an adequate supply of micronutrients from sustainable sources. Approaches include replacing foods with more nutrient-dense alternatives, incorporating foods from underused and more sustainable sources, and specifying dietary recommendations for vulnerable population groups. The MRI helps with the development of dietary modelling strategies to address micronutrient deficiencies in a needs-based manner. Advanced data modelling is used to generate a robust description of possible solutions.
The MRI also contributes to the dissemination of the findings and supports the project communication. The results of “Zero Hidden Hunger EU” shall serve political decision-makers and actors in the food system in implementing targeted interventions to counteract micronutrient deficiencies in Europe.
Complex challenges for public health
The “Zero Hidden Hunger EU” project emphasises the importance of collective action in tackling complex public health challenges in Europe. It prioritises data-driven interventions and promotes interdisciplinary collaboration. In this way, the project aims to pave the way for a healthier and more resilient Europe.
Disclaimer
Co-funded by the European Union. The views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.