Recent research published in the journal ‘Nutrients’ sheds light on the critical role of dairy consumption at breakfast among children in Southeast Asia, revealing significant implications for public health and the commercial landscape of the dairy industry. The study, led by Nadja Mikulic from FrieslandCampina, analyzed data from the South East Asian Nutrition Surveys II (SEANUTS II), involving a substantial sample of over 10,000 children aged 2 to 12 years across Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
The findings are striking: while breakfast consumption is relatively high among children in the region, only a small fraction—37% in Malaysia, 27% in Thailand, 16% in Indonesia, and 18% in Vietnam—includes dairy. This limited incorporation of dairy is concerning given the nutrient deficiencies highlighted in the study. “Dairy consumers had significantly higher intakes of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B12, D, and calcium, both at breakfast and throughout the day,” Mikulic stated, emphasizing the importance of dairy in children’s diets.
The implications of these findings extend beyond health; they signal a potential shift in the dairy market landscape in Southeast Asia. With the prevalence of stunting and overweight/obesity among children in the region, there is an urgent need for targeted public health interventions. The study found that breakfast skippers faced a 29% increased risk of being overweight or obese, underscoring the importance of establishing healthy breakfast habits. This presents an opportunity for dairy companies to engage in educational campaigns that promote the nutritional benefits of dairy, particularly in breakfast foods.
Moreover, the study suggests that incorporating dairy into school breakfast programs could be an effective strategy to combat malnutrition and promote healthier diets among children. Mikulic noted, “Public policies, such as implementing school milk programs, can help provide children with regular access to dairy and promote balanced breakfasts.” This could not only enhance children’s health but also drive demand for dairy products, benefiting the industry economically.
As the region grapples with malnutrition, the findings from this research could shape future initiatives aimed at improving childhood nutrition. The dairy sector has a unique opportunity to align its products with the nutritional needs of children, potentially leading to innovative product development and marketing strategies that resonate with health-conscious parents.
This research not only highlights the nutritional gaps among children in Southeast Asia but also emphasizes the pivotal role that dairy can play in addressing these challenges. As the industry evolves, stakeholders must consider how to leverage these insights to foster healthier eating habits and ultimately contribute to the well-being of future generations. For more information on this research and its implications, visit FrieslandCampina.
