Micronutrient deficiency describes a condition in which there is a lack or shortage of vitamins and minerals. Also referred to as "hidden hunger", it increases vulnerability to infection, birth defects and impaired development and can lead to premature death. For example, iron deficiency leads to anaemia, vitamin A deficiency weakens the immune system, and iodine deficiency interferes with brain development.
Legal status
Non-negotiated soft law
Body
Special Rapporteur on the right to food
Document type
Special Procedures' report
Means of adoption
N.A.
Topic(s)
Food & Nutrition
Health
Year
2016
Paragraph type
Other
Reference
SR Food, Report to the UNGA (2016), A/71/282, para. 7.