25 May 2026 – A new publication by the Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies (HMHB) Consortium sheds light on how countries can effectively deliver balanced energy and protein (BEP) supplements to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The study, “National and Sub-National Delivery of Balanced Energy and Protein (BEP) Supplements to Pregnant and Lactating Women in LMICs: Lessons from Multi-Country Implementation Case Studies,” published in Nutrients, examines implementation experiences across nine countries with diverse health systems and delivery models. It identifies opportunities, challenges, and lessons that can inform future efforts, underscoring the need for implementation research to inform best practices.
READ THE FULL PUBLICATION and PUBLICATION BRIEF
Translations available in FRENCH, SPANISH, PORTUGUESE, and ARABIC.
Maternal undernutrition remains a serious global health problem, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where millions of women are underweight and/or anemic. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends balanced energy and protein (BEP) supplementation for pregnant women in settings where at least 20% of women of reproductive age are underweight, to reduce the risk of adverse health outcomes.
The findings show that effective BEP delivery depends on strong health system integration, government leadership, sustainable financing, and community-centered approaches. The study highlights that countries with locally produced supplements, integrated delivery through antenatal care (ANC) systems, and strong behavior change communication strategies achieved better program uptake and sustainability. It also identifies persistent challenges such as supply chain disruptions, adherence issues, and limited workforce capacity. Ultimately, the study underscores that successful BEP implementation requires more than policy. It demands coordinated systems, sustained support, and a focus on women’s needs and experiences to improve maternal and newborn outcomes.