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Warning of Osteoporosis Spread; Dairy Consumption in Iran Decreased by 30%

Feb 5, 2026 February 5, 2026 2 min read 📰 VOA Persian
📋 Key Takeaway

Dairy consumption in Iran has decreased by 30%, raising concerns about public health and osteoporosis. Officials attribute this decline to rising prices and inadequate purchasing power among citizens. This situation highlights the broader economic challenges facing Iranian households.

🔍 Quick Context Guide
💡 Bottom Line: The significant drop in dairy consumption in Iran highlights critical public health concerns amid economic hardship.

👥 Key Players

Alireza Oliaei Manesh MENTIONED
Deputy Health Minister of Tehran University of Medical Sciences
"He is a key figure in addressing public health issues in Iran, particularly concerning nutrition and disease prevention."
Jalal Rahmani MENTIONED
Deputy Health Minister of Qazvin University of Medical Sciences
"He provides insights into the nutritional standards and health recommendations for dairy consumption in Iran."
Reza Bakri MENTIONED
Secretary of the Iranian Dairy Products Industries Association
"He represents the dairy industry and highlights the economic challenges affecting dairy production and consumption."

📰 What Happened

Dairy consumption in Iran has dropped by 30%, raising alarms about potential increases in osteoporosis cases. This decline is attributed to rising prices and reduced purchasing power among the population.

  • Current per capita dairy consumption is only 104 grams, significantly below the recommended 250 grams.
  • The removal of preferential currency for livestock feed has led to increased dairy prices.

💡 Why It Matters

🇮🇷 For Iran: The decline in dairy consumption poses a significant public health risk, potentially leading to increased osteoporosis and other health issues.
🌍 Regional: Health crises in Iran could have spillover effects on regional stability and economic conditions.
🌐 International: International observers may view this situation as indicative of Iran's broader economic struggles and impact on public health.

📚 Background

Iran has been facing economic difficulties, including high inflation and reduced purchasing power, which affect food consumption patterns. Dairy products are essential for nutrition and health, particularly in preventing osteoporosis.

Economic sanctions and their impact on Iran's economy Public health policies in Iran
📡 Source: STATE MEDIA
📊 Confidence: 70%
The information comes from state-affiliated sources, which may emphasize government perspectives on health and economic issues.

The Deputy Health Minister of Tehran University of Medical Sciences reported a 30% decrease in dairy consumption among Iranians, emphasizing that dairy products help prevent osteoporosis. Alireza Oliaei Manesh also warned about the high salt consumption in Iran, stating that the body's salt requirement is met only through bread consumption. The ISNA news agency reported on February 9 that per capita dairy consumption in Iran is lower than in other countries, which could lead to an increase in osteoporosis cases. According to the news agency, the rising prices of dairy products have significantly impacted their consumption. Jalal Rahmani, the Deputy Health Minister of Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, stated on Wednesday, February 4, that the daily dairy consumption should be 250 grams, while currently, it is only 104 grams. The Tehran Chamber of Commerce reported on September 21 this year that following the removal of preferential currency for livestock feed, dairy prices increased, leading to the lowest consumption levels in the past decade. The prevailing market trends and statistics regarding dairy consumption in Iran indicate that the government's policy of subsidizing livestock feed and setting fixed prices for dairy products has not been effective. Accordingly, Reza Bakri, the Secretary of the Iranian Dairy Products Industries Association, stated on December 5 this year that 'people do not have the purchasing power for even subsidized dairy products.' The inflation game is affecting public health; dairy consumption in Iran has decreased. Workers are facing food poverty; bread and sugar have replaced meat and dairy on the tables. The ambiguity in living conditions; the path to the poverty line; a 200% increase in wages. The Secretary of the Iranian Dairy Products Industries Association: people do not have the purchasing power for subsidized dairy products. Unveiling a support package to combat malnutrition; the return of chicken to crisis levels.

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Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →

Translation confidence: 85%

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