Increasing Food Security Challenges in Iran and the Role of Essential Commodities Import in Enhancing Child Nutrition
Food Security at Risk: Essential Imports Critical to Protect Iran’s Children
Amid a sharp rise in food prices—exceeding 50% year-on-year—millions of vulnerable Iranian families are struggling to access nutritious food. Recent data show over 12% of children under five suffer from wasting, while 18% of school-aged children face overweight or obesity.
UNICEF is working closely with the Iranian government to combat child malnutrition through:
• Nutrition data collection and analysis for children aged 0–18
• Integration of nutrition care into the primary health system
• Strategic food fortification and supplementation
• Development of national dietary guidelines for school-age children
A 2021 survey across eight food-insecure provinces revealed widespread zinc and vitamin A & D deficiencies among children under five.
As economic hardship grows, the import of essential commodities such as grains, wheat, oils, and feedstock remains a key lever in maintaining national food security and improving child nutrition outcomes.
