The MFI Concept & Rationale

The MFI approach links concepts of quality management - already deployed by processors - with a market systems approach.

Because regulatory requirements for micronutrient fortification have not been an effective driver for compliance, the MFI was developed as a market-based solution to encourage industry self-regulation and sustainably promote competitive business practices amongst participants. This approach has already been seen to work in other sectors, such as in corporate governance.

The MFI helps to seed a market environment in which food fortification can sustainably improve access to nutrients, with the industry taking ownership of the effort. The MFI presents a strong brand that processors of wheat flour, edible oils, salt, and sugar hope to attain in order to stand out to consumers and stakeholders. It enables high-performing businesses to distinguish themselves and encourages other firms to change their behaviors in order to earn recognition.

The MFI sets out to:

• Create a level playing field that incentivizes food processors to adhere to fortification and quality standards.

• Serve as a mark of quality to the market and consumers that inform brand preferences.

• Incentivize systemic adoption of quality governance systems, reducing the risk of quality failures.