Contribution of animal source foods in improving diet quality and function in children in the developing world

Mild to moderate protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is prevalent throughout the developing world. Children are particularly susceptible to malnutrition, which contributes to poor growth, diminished mental development, and illness. The recognition that micronutrient deficiencies frequently co-exist with PEM is receiving increasing attention. In this regard, diet quality, or the ability of a given diet to provide the entire complement of high-quality protein, energy, minerals, trace metals, and vitamins necessary to meet requirements, is as significant as diet quantity alone. Animal source foods supply not only high-quality and readily digested protein and energy, but are also a compact and efficient source of readily available micronutrients. This review covers information derived from field studies, both observational and interventions, regarding intake of animal products, such as meat and milk, and also the major constituent micronutrients, iron, zinc, vitamins B-12 and A and their role on child growth, cognitive development and health. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.