Food insecurity, social and behaviour change and distribution model: key considerations for implementation of small quantity lipid-based nutrient supplement programmes.

Abstract

Objective: The objectives of this study were to (1) document factors that promoted or hindered the successful implementation of small quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (SQ-LNS) for children 6-23 months and pregnant and lactating women (PLW) and (2) gather programme staff perspectives on considerations for expanding SQ-LNS programmes in their context.

Design: We used qualitative methods to interview programme staff (n 23), conduct distribution site observations (n 9) and facilitate focus group discussions with caregivers of children 6-23 months (n 9) and PLW (n 6) with 6-8 participants per group across the three countries.

Setting: The study was conducted in SQ-LNS programme sites in Honduras, Niger and Somalia.

Results: We found high acceptability of SQ-LNS among caregivers of children 6-23 months and PLW women. However, caregivers and PLW were dissatisfied with the size of the product in Niger and Somalia and PLW disliked the aftertaste of iron in Honduras. In Somalia, PLW referred to high levels of food insecurity. We also found variation in how the partners designed their SQ-LNS programmes (e.g. enrolment and exit criteria), the level of communication around SQ-LNS and problem-solving to support appropriate use of SQ-LNS. Partners tracked anthropometric measurements in all countries and used the information to assess changes and, in some cases, noted improvements in child anthropometry and vaccination rates.

Conclusions: Programmes need to consider several operational factors during implementation, such as securing household food access in highly food-insecure areas, counselling on the use of SQ-LNS and evidence-based criteria for enrolment, exit and supplementation duration.