Formative research for the development of a market-based home fortification programme for young children in Niger

The objective of this formative research was to assess the acceptability of a micronutrient powder (Sprinkles(®)) and a lipid-based nutrient supplement (Nutributter(®)), and to explore people's willingness to pay for these products in a resource-poor context like Niger. In four sites, 84 focus group discussions among mothers, fathers and grandmothers of children 6-23 months were conducted, as well as 80 key informant interviews of mothers who participated in a home study where their children 6-23 months were given either Sprinkles(®) or Nutributter(®) to use either for a period of 4 weeks, or they were given both products over the 4-week period, i.e. Sprinkles(®) for 2 weeks and Nutributter(®) for an additional 2 weeks. The mothers understood how to use the products and generally used the products correctly. Both products were highly acceptable to adults and most children. In Niamey, where the 4-week home study used both products for 2 weeks each, the mothers tended to prefer Nutributter(®). The mothers who used either product were pleased with the improvements they saw in their children's health, including increased appetite, weight gain and increased energy and activity. A few mothers were concerned with how they would be able to provide for their child's increased appetite. Most participants across all four sites reported that they would be willing and able to afford to buy a single sachet of either Sprinkles(®) at a cost of US$0.03 or Nutributter(®) at a cost of US$0.08 several times a week. This study provides evidence that both of these products were are highly acceptable in different settings in Niger and suggests that delivery of Nutributter(®) or Sprinkles(®) at a low or subsidized cost through a market-based system may be possible in Niger, if an appropriate distribution system can be identified.