National Seminar on Importance of Zinc in Human Health.

The prevalence of zinc deficiency has not been adequately investigated, partly due to lack of suitable biomarkers. Based on the food balance data, it is estimated that a large section of the world population is at risk of developing zinc deficiency. The risk of deficiency is highest in populations which consume predominantly cereal based diets with little or no meat consumption. Severe zinc deficiency in India is rare; however, predictions based on dietary patterns indicate that mild or moderate deficiency could be widespread.