Gumlink, a Denmark-based developer and manufacturer of chewing gum, has unveiled a Vitamin A - fortified chewing gum, as an innovative step in fighting aspects of malnutrition in developing nations.  

The chewing gum was unveiled in Nairobi, Kenya this week during a conference on malnutrition organized by the Copenhagen Consensus Center, a Denmark based think tank that works closely with governments and philanthropists, sharing insights that guide the allocation of aid and development money.

The launch of the fortified chewing gum is expected to have a significant impact in reducing vitamin A deficiency among children in the developing nations.

Globally, it is estimated that 250 million children under the age of five are affected by Vitamin A deficiency. 

These children suffer a dramatically increased risk of death, blindness and illness, especially measles and diarrhea.  

Speaking at the launch, Gumlink Group Vice President Henrik Jespersen said that his company took up the challenge of developing a unique product that could be administered easily and affordably, after a global gathering of independent economists identified malnutrition and hunger as the worst problems plaguing the world. 

He said, "During the Copenhagen Consensus 2008 meeting, a clear priority that emerged was the need to supplement vitamin A, Zinc, iron and iodine.  These micronutrients are relatively inexpensive, but greatly important in maintaining optimal health in children".

"We are delighted to share this innovative product, and are confident that it will go a long way in stemming malnutrition in developing countries, by providing Vitamin A supplementation in a practical manner and at an affordable cost".  

Gumlink has engaged its patented multi-layer compressed technology in developing the chewing gum. 

This technology secures active ingredients that are easily absorbed through the oral mucosa and the gastrointestinal tract, offering fast, effective and controlled release of active ingredients.  

The chewing gum has an appealing taste and look, is sugar-free and easily digested. 

It comes in a friendly package with six gum tablets; each piece has 375 mcg Vitamin A, the recommended daily dosage endorsed by UNICEF and WHO. 

It is targeted at children between the ages of 3 and 5 years.

The gum is expected to debut in the Kenyan market within the coming months. 

"We have kicked off a high level engagement with the relevant government officials, with a view to making the product available locally.  We have also taken cognizance of the need to go through an education phase with key stakeholders, in order to create a better understanding of a healthy chewing gum that delivers critical micronutrients in a practical, hygienic and affordable mode", said Henrik.