Evaluating the Application of Nepalese Food Composition Database for Addressing Iron Deficiency Anemia

Abstract

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) remains a persistent public health challenge in Nepal, affecting 43% of children under five and up to 47.6% of pregnant women. This study evaluates the quality and applicability of the Nepalese Food Composition Table (NFCT) and the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) database for addressing the IDA burden. Using a qualitative design, the methodology comprised 12 semi-structured Key Informant Interviews with stakeholders from government, academia, and the private sector, supplemented by a literature review and a comparative technical review against the Indian Food Composition Tables (IFCT). Results show that NFCT 2017, despite covering 387 food items, lacks analytical sensitivity, carries an estimated error margin of ±10%, and omits iron bioavailability data. NARC 2024 is more statistically structured but limited by geographic bias and a lack of animal-source and processed-food data. IFCT 2017, by contrast, shows stronger analytical precision, broader geographic coverage, and bioavailable-iron profiling. These gaps constrain dietary assessment and nutrition-sensitive policy planning in Nepal. The study recommends a multi-sectoral approach to strengthen laboratory infrastructure, adopt standardized FAO/INFOODS methodologies, and integrate food composition data digitally, supporting the Multi-Sector Nutrition Plan III and a shift from supplementation toward sustainable food-based strategies.