Hidden hunger is a term describing a deficiency in vitamins and minerals, rather than energy. This example of malnutrition affects millions worldwide including those in developed countries and are over-weight or obese. It easily goes unnoticed and has far-reaching consequences.

At its core, hidden hunger stems from a lack of access to and consumption of nutrient-rich foods. Diets lacking in diversity do not cover our nutritional needs and, as a consequence, even if energy is enough to keep starvation at bay, micronutrient deficiencies develop. This form of malnutrition is particularly prevalent in low-income communities, where access to a variety of foods is limited and reliance on high carbohydrate staple crops is high. Inadequate agricultural practices, soil depletion, and climate change can exacerbate the problem, diminishing nutrient content and perpetuating cycles of hidden hunger.

Consequences of hidden hunger are multifaceted impacting physical health and cognitive function. These deficiencies weaken immune systems, increasing susceptibility to infectious diseases, and contribute to maternal (e.g., bleeding during and after birth) and fetal and child brain development and growth. Addressing hidden hunger requires multifaceted interventions, but estimates of the true prevalence are also needed especially in developed countries where it is largely dismissed as a problem.

Zero Hidden Hunger (Grant Agreement No. 101137127) is an EU-funded project, focused on generating data describing hidden hunger and evidence underpinning development and implementation of countermeasures. The work is being performed with the aid of high-quality data and biobanks from diverse European population sub-groups, supplemented by studies amongst under-represented communities, and EuroFIR is one of the 19 organisations in the consortium.

Hidden hunger remains a formidable challenge with far-reaching implications for global health and development. However, with evidence-based knowledge concerted efforts and collective action can move us towards a future where all individuals have access to the safe, nutritious and affordable foods they need to thrive.