Evaluating the Impact of Fortified Blended Food on Nutritional Status and School Attendance of Orphans in Ugandan Care Homes: A Longitudinal Cohort Study

Orphans in institutional care in Uganda face heightened risks of malnutrition and poor educational outcomes. Evidence on the sustained impact of fortified food supplements within this specific context remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the longitudinal impact of a daily fortified blended food (FBF) supplement on the nutritional status and school attendance rates of school-age orphans residing in care homes in Lusaka, Uganda. A longitudinal cohort study was conducted. Orphans from multiple care homes received a daily FBF supplement for a sustained period. Anthropometric measurements (height-for-age and weight-for-height z-scores) and verified school attendance records were collected at baseline and at regular intervals. Data were analysed using paired statistical tests. Analysis indicated a statistically significant improvement in mean height-for-age z-scores, corresponding to a reduction in the prevalence of stunting by approximately 18%. School attendance records also showed a marked improvement, with a notable reduction in absenteeism. The provision of a fortified blended food supplement had a beneficial effect on both the nutritional status and school attendance of orphans in Ugandan care homes over time, suggesting its potential as a component of integrated support programmes. Sustained FBF supplementation should be integrated into standard care protocols for institutionalised children. Programmes should combine nutritional support with educational monitoring to maximise benefits. Further research should investigate cost-effectiveness and long-term sustainability. Nutritional supplementation, orphans, stunting, school attendance, Uganda, fortified foods, child health This study provides longitudinal evidence from a real-world setting on the dual benefits of a fortified food intervention for a vulnerable paediatric population in Uganda, informing public health practice in child institutional care.