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Food and Nutrition Security in Bangladesh: Energy and Micronutrients Availability in Rice-based Diets

Period

1995-2004

Main Collaborating Institutions

• The Royal Veterinary & Agricultural University
  
  
• Institute of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Univeristy of Dhaka
  
  
• Grain Quality & Nutrition Division, Bangladesh Rice Research Institute, Faculty of Fisheries, Bangladesh Agricultural University

Principal Project Coordinators

Nazmul Hassan, Professor

Institute of Nutrition and Food Science
University of Dhaka
Dhaka 1000
Bangladesh

Tel: + 880 2 9661900 - 59 ext. 6259.
Fax:   + 880 2 883876
Email: nhassan @ bangla.net

Shakuntala Haraksingh Thilsted, Associate Professor

Research Dept. of Human Nutrition
The Royal Veterinary & Agricultural University
Rolighedsvej 30
1958 Frederiksberg C
Denmark

Tel: + 45 35282497
Fax: + 45 35282483
Email: sht @ kvl.dk

Project Description

The project aims at increasing research and education activities in Bangladesh in the areas of nutrition and food supply with particular emphasis on the applied aspects of the research and the dissemination of the results to the population and decision-makers. In this way, Bangladeshi institutions will be able to participate in securing that food production follows the nutritional needs of the Bangladeshi population. 

Nutrition is approached in a multidisciplinary fashion through consideration of agricultural, social, and health aspects. The project aims at implementing specific training and research components that incorporate different aspects of a nutrient dense Bangladeshi diet including rice, small fish and green leafy vegetables, as well as nutrients: carbohydrate, protein, vitamin A, calcium and zinc and their interaction. Research is carried out on changes in vitamin A status when vegetables, as well as selected nutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, vitamin A, calcium, iron and zinc and their interaction are added to the diet. 

Ph.D. and M.Sc. students and Bangladeshi researchers are being trained at a post-doctoral level. In addition, newer relevant research methods and technologies are being passed on through training of technicians and other staff. Laboratory and library facilities in Bangladesh are being improved. Shorter courses for postgraduate students and junior researchers are being held in Bangladesh, and an additional course for "field officers" is being held on food security and nutrition. The project has been successful in linking several research activities to other research activities supported and funded by both national and international agencies.

Further information: The Research Institute for Human Nutrition