Micronutrient deficiencies can have adverse health consequences,
such as impairments in growth, neurobehavioral
dysfunctions, and defective immunity [6], which not only
contribute to delays in growth and development but also are
important factors in the transmission and progression of infectious
diseases, increases in morbidity and mortality, and
decreases in intellectual potential [7–10]. Therefore, decreasing the prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies is a highly prioritized
strategy for many health policy makers in the governments
of these countries.