As the availability of food constricts following a natural disaster or other complex emergency, people affected by these events become susceptible to caloric, vitamin, and micronutrient deficiencies that can lead to malnutrition and increased mortality rates. Humanitarian food aid sent to populations affected by disasters generally includes pulses, cereals, and vegetable oil. Common deficiencies include Vitamin A, iron, iodine, zinc, potassium, magnesium, vitamin c, riboflavin, and niacin. Many of these vitamins can be added to grains, oils, and salt as fortification. Some, like vitamin C, cannot because they break down when exposed to oxygen or heat. Foods that are rich in micronutrients can help in addressing some of these deficiencies. These include pulses, groundnuts, red palm oil, fruits, and vegetables. Vitamin supplements can also be given at distribution sites. Other long-term interventions include helping affected populations establish gardens, livestock, and access to more local food sources.

Information was gathered from publications primarily set forth by the WHO and UN and scientific journal articles. Information gathering and research methods surrounding the prevalence and outcomes of malnutrition in populations affected by natural disasters are sparse and inexact. There is no central entity conducting research, and aid workers often gather information in the field. The methodology is not standardized, and there are problems with the data. Some groups suffering from the effects of malnutrition tend to be excluded from the results studies that are conducted. Children, specifically measurements of their growth rates over time, are often used as a proxy for a larger population, which is inexact at best. The methodology has also changed significantly over time.

Mekong Valley Foods gratefully acknowledges the research and analysis of Amy Wilder in compiling this report.