Development of a standardized consensus lexicon for terms related to micronutrient programs

Area of Science:

• Public Health Nutrition
• Food Science
• Health Policy

Background:

• Inconsistent terminology in micronutrient programs, particularly large-scale food fortification (LSFF), impedes effective communication among diverse stakeholders.
• Stakeholders include public and private sectors, donor agencies, food industries, and academic institutions, each with unique terminologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a consensus-based lexicon of key terms for micronutrient programs, including LSFF.
• To create a central repository of definitions that facilitates clear communication and alignment among all involved parties.

Main Methods:

• Compiled terms from UN agencies, implementation support agencies, websites, and scientific literature, guided by key interventions and program cycles.
• Applied a modified Delphi method to harmonize definitions for terms with multiple existing definitions.
• Conducted expert reviews and online surveys with over 140 micronutrient experts to reach consensus on definitions.

Main Results:

• Developed a lexicon containing 217 terms, including 19 legal and 83 micronutrient terms.
• Achieved consensus on definitions through expert agreement, with terms requiring >75% agreement considered final.
• The lexicon is available online as a living document for ongoing updates.

Conclusions:

• The developed lexicon provides harmonized definitions for key micronutrient program terms.
• It will enhance communication, program evaluation, and informed decision-making to combat micronutrient deficiencies.
• The lexicon serves as a vital tool for stakeholders to compare program performance and drive progress.