Objective We planned to assess the impact of fortified food through a community based research study of children aged 12–59 months in Uttar Pradesh.

Methods We used a quasi experimental design in Kanpur dehat district where fortified food was to be initiated. Sample size calculation required 750 participants. 30 villages (matched for socio-economic and demographic factors) from each block (intervention, control and benchmark) were selected. From each village 25 children were selected for anthropometrics and dietary intake recording, 10 children for clinical examinations and five for biochemical examinations. Base line assessment was completed in all blocks. The follow-up survey was completed after 1 year of intervention.

Results The majority of children belonged to lower socio-economic groups and underprivileged areas. Considerable improvements in anaemia and serum retinol occurred. The prevalence of severe malnutrition declined considerably in the intervention and control blocks.

Conclusion We found that fortified panjiri was effective in improving anaemia, serum retinol and nutritional status. Short duration of intervention was as effective as prolonged interventions.