Bouillon fortification saves thousands of children's lives in West Africa.
Micronutrient-fortified bouillon can save children's lives in Senegal, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria. Adding vitamin A, zinc, and folic acid to bouillon at specific levels can greatly reduce deaths from deficiencies. In Senegal, fortification could prevent 65% of vitamin A-related deaths and 92% of folate-related deaths. In Burkina Faso, it could save 36% of vitamin A-related deaths and 74% of folate-related deaths. In Nigeria, over 95% of both types of deaths could be prevented. Adding all three nutrients to bouillon could save hundreds to thousands of child lives annually in each country. These findings can help improve fortification programs and save more lives.