Who is willing to pay for micronutrient powders for children 2‐5 years of age in Nepal? (250.2)

Abstract

Background: Nepali children have a high burden of micronutrient deficiencies. A 2011 pilot project gave micronutrient powders (MNP) for free to children 6‐23 months. This project is under review to inform future policy decisions. We describe willingness to pay (WTP) for MNP and pricing attitudes to explore potential for purchase of MNP for children 2‐5 years. Methods: Representative household surveys were conducted with mothers of children 6‐23 months in two districts 3 months after the pilot started. Questions explored MNP WTP for children 2‐5 years and attitude about a suggested price (R150/6 mo supply, ~US$2.10). Chi square tests assessed WTP and price attitudes by demographics; and WTP by MNP knowledge and intervention exposure. Results: Overall, 78% of mothers expressed WTP for MNP and 66% had a positive attitude toward the suggested price. WTP and positive price attitude were associated with higher wealth quintiles and higher maternal education. Urban residence was associated with positive pricing attitude. Receipt of MNP education and printed materials were associated with WTP, but use of MNP among younger children was not. Those with knowledge of barriers to MNP use were less likely to show WTP than those with none (66.3% vs. 92.4%, p<0.01). Conclusions: WTP and positive price attitude indicate potential for mothers to purchase MNP for children 2‐5 years in Nepal. Further studies are needed to determine if stated WTP translates into actual purchase.