The economic rationale for investing in nutrition in developing countries

Studies of experimental and socioeconomic survey data on the direct productivity effects of nutrition indicate growing, though qualified, evidence of positive direct effects of nutrition on labor productivity of poorer individuals in developing countries — greater productivity effects for nutrition than for formal schooling. Studies on the indirect productivity effects of nutrition through cognitive achievement, schooling, and preschool ability also indicate positive productivity effects through these channels. Therefore, for productivity reasons alone, policies that favor better nutrition among the poorer members of society merit serious consideration. That productivity and equity concerns are in harmony is an important plus.