Hidden Hunger

"Malnutrition is a significant public health issue that deserves the frank attention given by Dr. Biesalski in his new book, Hidden Hunger. Nutrition research discoveries made by ASN members contribute to eradicating hunger and micronutrient deficiencies in this decade. Everyone concerned with feeding our growing population should read this book." John E. Courtney, Ph.D., Executive Officer, American Society for Nutrition In an age of fiscal retrenchment, budgetary austerity and newly-imposed limits to foreign assistance of all kinds, it is critical that scientists and development practitioners keep their eye on the ball. What exactly is the global community trying to achieve with our many grandiose targets, demands for evidence-based practice and value for money? Ultimately, we seek enhanced and sustained wellbeing for all of the world's citizens. The rhetoric used to explain that over-arching goal encompasses poverty reduction, agricultural growth, female empowerment, health disparities, literacy, and so much more. But none of that can be achieved without fundamentally changing the way we talk about, and seek to resolve, hidden hunger. Dr. Biesalski has thrown down the gauntlet with his book of that title. It pushes concrete evidence to the fore, critiques well-known and innovative approaches, and explores new dimensions that accompany rapid urban-based dietary change. His book urges that adequate attention be paid to a vast global problem that will remain hidden unless it is dragged out into the daylight and seen for what it is: a drain on national, social and human growth that dwarfs the shrinking resources being put into its resolution. The book needs to be read and re-read by those who would otherwise not pick up a text on nutrition. The problem is too great to be left to a small, albeit dedicated cadre of professional nutritionists. The solution to hidden hunger lies in concerted multi-sectoral actions that link private and public sector strategies. It lies with multiple government ministries, with diverse players across civil society, and with researchers working at all levels from cell to society. The problems may be (largely) hidden, but the risks of inaction cannot be ignored. Fortunately, Biesalski offers potential solutions and new ways of looking at old challenges. These much be understood, debated and, wherever feasible, implemented at scale with the urgency and passion that he communicates in this important book. Patrick Webb, Dean for Academic Affairs and Alexander MacFarlane Professor of Public Policy at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Medford, MA, USA

This book details how hidden hunger affects human health long before malnutrition becomes obvious. It examines scientific, political and economic contexts to the problem and advocates sustainable solutions by investments in agriculture and small-scale farming.Hidden Hunger is an increasing problem even in developed countries, whose potential negative consequences on long-term health are often overlooked and underestimated. Chronic malnutrition is at the core of the global hunger challenge facing science, politics, and economics. In plain language and with moving examples, Hans K. Biesalski describes how hidden hunger affects human health long before malnutrition becomes obvious. Worldwide, over one third of deaths among children under 5 years of age is associated with malnutrition. As poverty is the main reason for hidden hunger, addressing this dire challenge requires long-term policies. Land grabbing and climate change seriously counteract a lot of efforts to overcome hidden hunger. This book is a highly impressive call to action. Investment in agriculture and in particular in small-scale farmers to improve subsistence farming are among the approaches suggested to reach a sustainable solution. The author is head of the department of biochemistry and nutrition and managing director of the Food Security Center at the University of Hohenheim, Germany. He is a member of numerous advisory and expert groups for the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Global Forum on Food Security and Nutrition.