Stories
10 stories that shaped our work in global nutrition this year
December 19, 2025
About the MMS Cost-Benefit Tool
Is investing in multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) more cost-effective than long-standing iron and folic acid supplementation (IFAS) for antenatal care? The MMS Cost-Benefit Tool explores this question by comparing the incremental costs and health benefits associated with the transition from IFAS to MMS across different country contexts.
Developed using a rigorous methodology (Kashi et al., 2019), the tool balances simplicity of use with meaningful results. It has been used extensively by decision makers around the world to quickly assess both the economic implications and health gains of adopting MMS in their country.
How it works
Users can construct and test different scenarios by updating the assumptions within the tool or running a custom analysis. Five health outcomes are included in the analysis and aggregated using disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).
NEW! The tool now includes a transition module to support more realistic estimations of the transition costs. Drawing on recent costing study data, it estimates key incremental costs beyond the commodity such as governance and coordination, training and social and behaviour change communication materials, service delivery, monitoring, and procurement and distribution. Together, these enhancements give decision makers a more accurate estimate of the costs and stronger evidence to guide maternal and newborn health investments.
We’re interested in learning how you’ve used our tool in your work. Please complete this short form to share how you’ve applied the MMS Cost-Benefit Tool.