The United Nations Statistical Commission has officially adopted Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) as a new Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicator during its 56th session in New York. This marks a significant step in global nutrition monitoring, emphasizing the importance of dietary quality in preventing malnutrition and supporting overall health, growth, and development.
Key Highlights of the MDD Indicator:
- Focus on Diversity: A diverse diet is a fundamental pillar of good nutrition.
- Population Groups: The MDD indicator is measured for two key groups:
- MDD-C (Children)
- MDD-W (Women of Reproductive Age, 15-49 years)
What is MDD-W?
- Developed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and its partners.
- A yes/no measure indicating whether a woman (aged 15-49) has consumed at least 5 out of 10 defined food groups in the past 24 hours.
The 10 Food Groups in MDD-W:
- Grains, white roots, tubers, and plantains
- Pulses (beans, peas, lentils)
- Nuts and seeds
- Milk and milk products
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Eggs
- Dark green leafy vegetables
- Other vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables
- Other vegetables
- Other fruits
Why is MDD Important?
- Helps assess dietary diversity at a population level.
- Aids in evaluating nutrition programs and setting policy targets.
- Focuses on women and children, who are most vulnerable to malnutrition.
(Source: UNFAO)
