In low- and middle-income countries, the benefits of fish to healthy diets are not fully understood or recognized. n the state of Odisha, with rich aquatic resources, a population which values fish as integral to the food culture and habits, and with high rates of malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, low fish intakes, especially among the poor, women and young children, this ‘WorldFish signature comprehensive, integrative nutrition-sensitive approach’ in the fisheries sector has the potential to increase supply, access and consumption of safe, nutritious fish and fish products and, thereby, make a significant contribution to sustainably improving food and nutrition security in the state.
More importantly, increased fish consumption has the potential to improve nutrition and health of the population of the state. In Odisha, 45% of children under five years of age suffer from chronic undernutrition, including micronutrient deficiencies. This number is even higher amongst tribal children, with 57% of tribal children chronically undernourished, according to a UNICEF report, as reported in the media. The situation among Odisha’s rural tribal children, aged 18-23 months is even more serious, with the prevalence of stunting (low height for age) as high as 83%9. Fish, as a highly nutritious animal-source food, supplying multiple, essential nutrients can substantially alleviate this dire situation. This approach is relevant to other states of India, with rich fisheries resources and fish as part of the food culture, for example, West Bengal as well as other countries in the region such as Terai, Nepal.