Critical Review of Indicators, Metrics, Methods, and Tools for Monitoring and Evaluation of Biofortification Programs at Scale

By:
Santiago Rodas-Moya, Francesca M. Giudici, Bho Mudyahoto, Ekin Birol, Stephen R. Kodish, Carl Lachat, Taymara C. Abreu, Alida Melse-Boonstra, Karin H. van het Hof, Inge D. Brouwer, Saskia Osendarp, Edith J. M. Feskens
Date:
2022

The article highlights the importance of standardized monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems for biofortification programs. Current indicators, metrics, methods, and tools (IMMT) lack harmonization, making cross-country and cross-crop comparisons difficult. Using a mapping review, expert interviews, and a Theory of Change (ToC), the study recommends 17 high-level indicators to track implementation outcomes globally. These include metrics for seed systems, crop value chains, adoption rates, and dietary outcomes. The review emphasizes that without harmonized M&E frameworks, scaling biofortification will be fragmented and less effective. Establishing shared tools will improve accountability, policymaking, and integration into national nutrition strategies.