This National Nutrition Week (9–15 October) and World Food Day taking place on 16 October, Nestlé South Africa’s Nutrition, Health & Wellness Manager, Anne-Marie De Beer, highlights how Hidden Hunger, nutrient deficiencies caused by poor diet quality continues to silently shape the country’s future.
Despite being food-secure on paper, millions of South Africans face serious nutrition gaps that undermine learning, health, and productivity. The Human Sciences Research Council reports that over half of Gauteng households are food insecure, while more than 50% of South Africans lack reliable access to safe, nutritious food. Diets rich in cheap staples but low in essential nutrients are leaving lasting scars, particularly among children and adolescents.
Anne-Marie’s thought leadership piece, “Tackling South Africa’s Silent Nutrition Gaps with Everyday Food Choices,” explores how small, affordable shifts in eating habits, such as adding fortified cereals, iron-rich meals, and locally inspired balanced dishes can make a tangible difference.
To make better nutrition easier and more accessible, Nestlé has launched GoodNes, a free digital platform offering practical, science-based guidance, locally inspired recipes, and meal-planning tools that help South Africans close nutrient gaps without stretching budgets.
This piece is an urgent call for awareness and action, reminding us that food is not just about today’s meal, but about tomorrow’s potential.
Please see attached the content piece and infographic for your attention.
Would you be interested in featuring or excerpting Anne-Marie’s article, or setting up an interview to discuss the findings and solutions further?
