# Nutritional deficiencies in Indonesian children

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nutritional-deficiencies-in-indonesian-children
> Updated: 2026-08-22T03:03:04.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Medical experts and researchers have identified significant nutritional deficiencies among Indonesian children, particularly regarding brain development. At the Pediatric Science & Health Summit 2026, data from the South East Asian Nutrition Survey II (SEANUTS II) showed that the average iron intake for Indonesian children is only 65.8 percent of recommended requirements. Experts warned that such deficiencies can severely impact the nervous system, affecting cognitive functions, focus, and memory.

Subsequent research published in the British Journal of Nutrition highlighted a deficiency in EPA and DHA, noting that approximately 8 out of 10 Indonesian children aged 4 to 12 have intake levels below the minimum recommended by the FAO and WHO. Specialists attributed this to changing consumption patterns as children enter primary school, often shifting from milk to flavored beverages. In response to these gaps, industry players like PT Mayora Indah Tbk have introduced fortified products, such as the chocolate malt drink Champion, to provide essential DHA.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-22: DHA deficiency affects 8 in 10 Indonesian children

Approximately 80% of Indonesian children aged 4–12 lack sufficient DHA intake, as shifting preferences from milk to flavored drinks impact essential brain development and nutrition.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dha-deficiency-affects-8-in-10-indonesian-children

### 2026-08-09: Pediatric Summit highlights iron deficiency risks in Indonesian children

Experts at the Pediatric Science & Health Summit 2026 in Bali reported that Indonesian children average only 65.8% of their required iron intake, risking long-term cognitive and nervous system development.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/pediatric-summit-highlights-iron-deficiency-risks-in-indonesian-children

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Cite as: Nutritional deficiencies in Indonesian children. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nutritional-deficiencies-in-indonesian-children
