Project description
Steps to eradicate hidden hunger from Europe
Micronutrient (MN) deficiency afflicts European society, putting human development and health at risk due to inadequate mineral and vitamin intake. Vulnerable demographics, including children, pregnant women, the elderly, and marginalised groups, are particularly at risk, comprising about 70 % of the population. Lack of comprehensive data on deficiency prevalence hampers effective interventions, leaving discussions on meeting dietary needs in limbo. In this context, the EU-funded Zero_HiddenHunger_EU project aims to assess deficiency prevalence, analyse associated health costs, and devise tailored, sustainable solutions to eradicate hidden hunger across Europe. By leveraging advanced techniques and existing data, including biobanks, the project seeks to identify high-risk populations and develop effective strategies.
Objective
Micronutrient (MN) deficiency is a form of malnutrition that occurs due to low intake and/or absorption of minerals and vitamins, with adverse consequences for human development and health. Children, adolescents, women of reproductive age (including pregnancy) and older adults (representing ~70% of European society) as well as immigrant/ethnic minority groups and those affected by social inequality or poverty, are at risk of MN deficiencies. While addressing this public health problem is a priority, it is not possible until data on the prevalence of MN deficiencies across the EU population and the causes for these deficiencies is available to predict and identify those most at risk. Without this information, discussions on how to meet dietary requirements for the priority MNs of public health concern, and improve their status, take place in a vacuum. The Zero_HiddenHunger_EU project aims to 1) provide estimates of the true prevalence of MN deficiencies, based on priority biomarker and MN intake data in European populations and their associated health costs, focused on high-risk population subgroups, and 2) provide the best possible evidence to develop context-specific, tailored food-focused solutions to ensure adequate supply of vitamins and minerals from diets from sustainable sources. The consortium will focus the research effort around existing high-quality data resources and biobanks from diverse and representative population groups around Europe, supplemented by targeted studies in under-represented groups, maximizing research investment and adding value. Using high-throughput biomarker and advanced data analytical and modelling techniques, Zero_HiddenHunger_EU will deliver credible evidence enabling policymakers and food system actors to deliver food-focused strategies to eradicate MN deficiencies from Europe.
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HORIZON-RIA - HORIZON Research and Innovation ActionsCoordinator
T12 YN60 Cork
Ireland
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Participants (14)
T12 Cork
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6708 PB Wageningen
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2800 Kongens Lyngby
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5230 Odense M
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1050 Bruxelles / Brussel
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
176 71 ATHINA
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69007 Lyon 7eme
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00271 Helsinki
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76131 Karlsruhe
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28029 Madrid
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11129 Belgrade
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1040 BRUXELLES
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
1040 Bruxelles / Brussel
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T12DX51 CORK
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
Partners (4)
Partner organisations contribute to the implementation of the action, but do not sign the Grant Agreement.
1066 Epalignes
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Partner organisations contribute to the implementation of the action, but do not sign the Grant Agreement.
1870 Monthey
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
Partner organisations contribute to the implementation of the action, but do not sign the Grant Agreement.
GU2 7XH Guildford
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Partner organisations contribute to the implementation of the action, but do not sign the Grant Agreement.
NR4 7UQ Norwich
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