Petition · Department of Health and Social Care
Act now to end iodine deficiency in UK women and protect children’s IQ
Closed
110 signatures
What the petition asks
We want the Government to introduce a national iodine strategy, including iodised salt or bread fortification, mandatory iodine in plant-based milks, national guidance for iodine supplements in pregnancy, and regular monitoring through the National Diet and Nutrition Survey.
The latest national data show UK women of reproductive age have very low iodine levels (median 82 µg/L; 30 % severely deficient), below countries such as Ghana, Timor-Leste and Mozambique. Iodine is essential for healthy brain development in babies, and deficiency reduces child IQ and learning potential. Most nations now fortify salt or staple foods; the UK funds these programmes overseas but has none at home. This is a simple, low-cost fix with lifelong benefits. We need a policy and action now
Timeline
| 3 Dec 2025 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 3 Jun 2026 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
110
Status
Closed
Department
Department of Health and Social Care
Opened
3 Dec 2025
Closed
3 Jun 2026
Follow this petition
Sign in to get an email when the government responds, a debate is scheduled or held, or the petition closes.
Source: the official petition page. Last checked 12 Aug 2026.