A Novel Optimization Approach for Developing Foods that Address Childhood Malnutrition

Micronutrient deficiencies affect over thirty percent of the world's children. Children are particularly at risk for deficiencies of vitamin A, iron, iodine, and zinc, which are essential micronutrients. Malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies are especially prevalent in Sierra Leone. Our overall goal is to develop nutrient-dense foods for children under the age of five in Sierra Leone using locally-sourced, low-cost ingredients. Three of the products in development include sweet potato muffins, peanut butter-based pudding, and bouillon cubes. In this study, we have used the model development and optimization tool AMPL (A Mathematical Programming Language), as an aid in developing recipes that minimize cost while satisfying nutrient requirements. First, AMPL and the optimization methodology are described. Then, three case studies, one for each food product, are presented to illustrate the use of AMPL as a tool to assist with recipe development. The results demonstrate how AMPL can aid in making quantitative decisions about food formulations. From the AMPL results, we have been able to structure recipes to meet nutrient requirements in a cost-efficient manner. Next steps for the project include taste-testing the products in Sierra Leone and analysis of the foods for nutrient content. The long-term plan for the project is for the foods to be produced in bakeries and sold in markets in Sierra Leone.