Approximately four billion people live primarily on a plant-based diet, out of which 50% suffer from micronutrient deficiencies. High levels of phytic acid in plants is one of the main reasons of the deficiency because it prevents absorption of critical micronutrients, leading to mineral deficiencies. Additionally, phytic acid hampers amino acid digestibility and, ultimately, causes malnutrition. Phytase, an evidence-based solution, degrades phytic acid and increases the absorption of calcium, zinc, iron, and other minerals, and improves the quality and digestibility of amino acids. 

When implemented at scale, phytase-enriched foods are expected to reduce iron deficiency prevalence among women of reproductive age (WRA) by 30%. Despite strong evidence, addition of phytase in human foods is a novel intervention. Hence, over four years, SAL, in collaboration with food companies and phytase manufacturers, will: 

• Create tasty, nutritious, accessible, and affordable phytase-based products that are aligned with consumer insights and aspirations. 
• Encourage the production of phytase-based food products among food companies through sensitization workshops, and promote the products among general population, WRA, and PLW through behavioral change campaigns. 
• Develop a sustainable business model that provides continued return to stakeholders together with environmental and societal benefits. 
• Engage regulatory authorities in India and Nigeria through meetings and workshops to understand the regulatory environment and its impact on the project.