History • Contribution • National Nutrition

History & Contribution of Nutrition Society of Bangladesh

Established on March 26, 1971, the Nutrition Society of Bangladesh (NSB) has worked to improve the nutritional status and physical quality of life of the people of Bangladesh through advocacy, scientific dialogue, policy support, technical collaboration, and national nutrition initiatives.

Since 1971

Advancing nutrition knowledge, policy support, and public health collaboration for Bangladesh.

50+

Years of contribution

Policy

National nutrition support

GoB

MOH&FW collaboration

Global

CODEX & partners

Historical Background

A professional society contributing to Bangladesh’s nutrition progress

NSB was established with the aim of improving the nutritional status and physical quality of life of the people of Bangladesh. Since its establishment, NSB has actively contributed to national and international nutrition initiatives through advocacy, technical support, scientific dialogue, policy development, and collaboration.

Advocacy & Awareness

Creating awareness about nutrition and helping combat malnutrition through scientific and social engagement.

Technical Collaboration

Working with government, BBF, civil society, and national/international stakeholders.

Government & National Program Collaboration

Support for national nutrition services and implementation mechanisms

NSB has worked closely with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of the Government of Bangladesh at both policy and program implementation levels. In line with the activities of the Government and stakeholders, NSB took part in the initiation of the National Nutrition Service and contributed to the 2nd National Plan of Action for Nutrition (NPAN) 2016–2025.

National Nutrition Service

Participation in the initiation and strengthening of national nutrition service activities.

NPAN 2016–2025

Contribution to the formulation of the 2nd National Plan of Action for Nutrition.

BNNC Mechanism

Support in institutionalizing coordination and implementation mechanisms including STC and Executive Committee of BNNC.

Policy Development

Policy contributions that shaped national nutrition action

NSB has provided technical and professional input in major nutrition and food policy areas. These contributions reflect NSB’s role in supporting public health, maternal and child nutrition, food safety, and evidence-based nutrition guidance.

BMS Act

Supported government initiatives for implementing and strengthening the BMS Code with BBF, NSB, and civil society.

Food Safety Policy

Contributed to the development of a countrywide food safety policy for Bangladesh.

Food-Based Dietary Guideline

Actively participated in the formulation of the National Dietary Guideline in Bangladesh, 2014.

National Nutrition Policy 2015

Worked with government for the development and dissemination of the National Nutrition Policy 2015.

4th Sector Plan

Contributed to the development of the 4th Sector Plan emphasizing IYCF and maternal nutrition, 2016–2021.

IYCF Strategy 2007

Played a vital role in disseminating and implementing the National Infant and Young Child Feeding Strategy of Bangladesh.

Major Contributions

From policy rooms to community-level nutrition support

Community & Maternal Nutrition

NSB, in collaboration with BBF, has worked on adolescent nutrition, maternity protection, Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), breastfeeding corners, and Mother Support Group activities across the country.

International Representation & Scientific Dialogue

NSB represented Bangladesh in CODEX Alimentarius Commission meetings with the Bangladesh Government and arranged national consultations on micronutrient nutrition in collaboration with BBF.

RUTF National Dialogue

Convened a national discussion in 2015 against commercial manufacturing of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) in Bangladesh.

Micronutrient Nutrition Consultation

Arranged national consultation with BBF to review strategies based on scientific evidence and policy contexts.

Breastfeeding Corners

Supported initiatives related to maternity protection and breastfeeding-friendly environments at important points.

Contribution Timeline

Key milestones in NSB’s journey

A simplified presentation of NSB’s historical and policy-related contribution areas for the website page.

1971

NSB established on March 26 with the aim of improving nutrition and physical quality of life in Bangladesh.

2007

Supported dissemination and implementation of the National Infant and Young Child Feeding Strategy.

2014

Participated in formulation of the National Dietary Guideline in Bangladesh.

2015

Worked on National Nutrition Policy development and convened RUTF national dialogue.

2016–2021

Contributed to the 4th Sector Plan with emphasis on IYCF and maternal nutrition.

2016–2025

Contributed to NPAN and coordination mechanisms of STC and Executive Committee of BNNC.

Continuing the commitment to nutrition, science, and public health

NSB continues to support better nutrition through research, education, policy advocacy, technical collaboration, and national-level engagement.

history & contribution