Micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) have a significant impact on individuals and societies, leading to poorer health, lower educational attainment, and decreased work capacity and earning potential. MNDs are preventable, and providing micronutrients offers a high return on investment. Understanding the biomarkers of MNDs alongside clinical and functional indicators is crucial for characterizing the global burden and identifying optimal interventions. Pregnant women and children under 5 are at the highest risk, with iron, iodine, folate, vitamin A, and zinc deficiencies being the most widespread. These deficiencies contribute to poor growth, intellectual impairment, perinatal complications, and increased morbidity and mortality. The cycle of MNDs perpetuates across generations, with far-reaching consequences. Traditional interventions include supplementation, fortification, and food-based approaches, with the first 1,000 days of life being the most effective period for breaking the cycle. However, a coordinated, sustainable commitment to scaling up nutritional interventions at the global level is needed. Food fortification may offer a more effective means to address MNDs in the long term.Micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) have a significant impact on individuals and societies, leading to poorer health, lower educational attainment, and decreased work capacity and earning potential. MNDs are preventable, and providing micronutrients offers a high return on investment. Understanding the biomarkers of MNDs alongside clinical and functional indicators is crucial for characterizing the global burden and identifying optimal interventions. Pregnant women and children under 5 are at the highest risk, with iron, iodine, folate, vitamin A, and zinc deficiencies being the most widespread. These deficiencies contribute to poor growth, intellectual impairment, perinatal complications, and increased morbidity and mortality. The cycle of MNDs perpetuates across generations, with far-reaching consequences. Traditional interventions include supplementation, fortification, and food-based approaches, with the first 1,000 days of life being the most effective period for breaking the cycle. However, a coordinated, sustainable commitment to scaling up nutritional interventions at the global level is needed. Food fortification may offer a more effective means to address MNDs in the long term.