New Delhi: IIMSAM, or the Intergovernmental Institution for the Use of Micro-Algae Spirulina Against Malnutrition – an observer organisation to the United Nations – is exploring greater cooperation with the Indian govt and stakeholders in the country to advance nutrition security through scientifically evaluated spirulina-based initiatives.The move came following PM Narendra Modi’s call for a society free from malnutrition during his Mann Ki Baat address Sept 27.Spirulina is a 3.5-billion-year-old blue-green algae that grows in fresh or salt water. Composed of 60% to 70% complete plant protein, spirulina boasts more iron than spinach and more beta-carotene than carrots, gram for gram. Its vibrant colour comes from phycocyanin, a key antioxidant unique to algae that fights cellular inflammation.IIMSAM has spearheaded the integration of nutrient-rich spirulina to combat malnutrition and food insecurity; and the organisation’s work extends across the world in promotingMeaningful progress towards the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development requires stronger and more innovative actions against malnutrition, IIMSAM stated in a release. “Without spirulina, Agenda 2030 cannot be achieved,” said Asif Ayoob, ambassador to India, IIMSAM, and emphasised that spirulina deserves greater international attention as a potential catalyst in the global fight against malnutrition.However, IIMSAM also recognise that spirulina is not a standalone solution; its potential benefits must be assessed in conjunction with dietary diversity, access to balanced food, public health interventions and established nutrition programmes.“PM Modi’s vision of a malnutrition-free India underscores the urgency of strengthening nutrition security through innovation, scientific cooperation and sustainable action. IIMSAM is prepared to leverage its institutional experience, international network and nutrition-focused mandate to explore initiatives that could complement India’s existing nutrition programmes,” Ayoob said.Ayoob further emphasised that any proposed initiatives must be guided by scientific evidence, food safety standards, nutritional suitability and measurable outcomes, particularly for vulnerable communities.IIMSAM believes that spirulina merits serious scientific consideration within broader strategies to improve nutrition security.“Malnutrition is not merely a food-related issue; it impacts health, childhood development, education, productivity and the long-term resilience of communities. If the international community is serious about achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, nutrition must be central to development planning,” Ayoob said.IIMSAM advocates examining spirulina as a potential contributor to Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), which aims to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture. Beyond its nutritional applications, the organisation seeks to explore the connections between spirulina cultivation, sustainable food systems, community participation, farmer livelihoods and humanitarian action.
