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An Efficient Method for Selective Desalination of Radioactive Iodine Anions by Using Gold Nanoparticles-Embedded Membrane Filter
Published on: July 13, 2018
Iodine fortification: why, when, what, how, and who?
Karen Charlton1, Sheila Skeaff
1School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health & Behavioural Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia. karenc@uow.edu.au
Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care
|September 6, 2011
Summary
Iodine deficiency is a growing concern, necessitating effective public health strategies like universal salt iodization (USI). Monitoring iodine status and addressing industry barriers are crucial for successful fortification programs.
Area of Science:
- Public Health Nutrition
- Endocrinology
- Food Science
Background:
- Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) remain a significant global health issue, with recent re-emergence in developed nations.
- Strategies to combat IDD include direct supplementation and fortification of staple foods, particularly salt.
- Challenges persist, including industry misperceptions and regulatory hurdles impacting the widespread adoption of iodized salt.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current challenges and considerations for iodine fortification programs.
- To evaluate the effectiveness and implementation issues of universal salt iodization (USI).
- To discuss the need for graduated approaches and improved monitoring of iodine status.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on iodine deficiency and fortification strategies.
- Analysis of public health initiatives and industry perspectives on salt iodization.
- Examination of challenges in implementing and monitoring iodine fortification programs.
Main Results:
- Iodine deficiency is resurging in countries like Australia, New Zealand, and the UK.
- Public health interventions, including food fortification, are essential, especially for vulnerable groups.
- Industry resistance due to taste/color concerns and restrictive legislation hinders universal salt iodization (USI).
Conclusions:
- Population-level amelioration of mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency is necessary.
- Continuous monitoring of both inadequate and excess iodine intake is vital.
- Development of sensitive indicators for recent iodine status is required to assess fortification impact.
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