Evaluating the acceptability of meals fortified with folic acid and vitamin B12

Evaluation of Acceptability of Folic Acid and Vitamin B12 Fortified Meals by Rural Communities of Ethiopia

Observational University Ghent · NCT06094049

This study is trying to see if women of reproductive age in rural Ethiopia like meals made with flour that has added folic acid and vitamin B12 compared to regular flour meals.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment72 (estimated)
Ages15 Years to 49 Years
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity Ghent Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Arba Minch and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06094049 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the sensory acceptability of meals fortified with folic acid and vitamin B12 among women of reproductive age in rural Ethiopia. Standard meals will be prepared using both unfortified and fortified flour, and preference and triangle tests will be conducted to determine the acceptability of these fortified products. The study addresses the significant public health issue of micronutrient deficiencies in Ethiopia, particularly among women, and seeks to inform future nutrition interventions. By understanding the sensory qualities of fortified meals, the study aims to enhance dietary habits and improve health outcomes in the community.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are women of reproductive age between 15-49 years who are literate and actively participate in food preparation.

Not a fit: Women who are pregnant or lactating, or those with diagnosed food allergies or intolerances to the prepared food will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved dietary habits and reduced rates of micronutrient deficiencies among women in rural Ethiopia.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with similar fortification approaches, indicating a potential for positive outcomes in addressing micronutrient deficiencies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Women of reproductive age (WRAG) between the ages of 15-49 years who live in households at AM-HDSS and who are:
* One or both of their parents signed an informed consent form and the girl's agreed if the participant is a teenage. A signed consent from women \>19 years of age.
* Commonly participating in the food preparation
* With general good health
* Literate (able to read and write)

Exclusion Criteria:

* WRAG who are pregnant and/or are lactating
* WRAG with diagnosed/reported food allergies and food intolerances toward the prepared food

Where this trial is running

Arba Minch and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Dietary HabitsFolic acid fortified mealVitamin B12 fortified mealPreference testTriangle test
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.