What is the Need of Food Fortification ?

Food fortification is the process of adding essential vitamins and minerals to food products to improve nutrient deficiencies, overall public health and well-being of communities. The Nutritional value of food has depleted over the period of time. Increased use of artificial pesticides, fertilizers and chemicals leads to imbalance of soil life, the health of crop plants and therefore affecting the quality of the food we eat. Our food style has changed a lot with hectic lifestyle leading to less nutritional intake. Our body’s capacity to absorb nutrition from food has been depleted because of the present living condition.

What is the difference between fortified foods and supplements?

Fortified foods are added with more than one nutrient. Supplements are concentrated sources of nutrients and mostly contain only 1 nutrient. Supplements are marketed in the form of Pills, tablets, capsules, liquids in measured amount. Both of them provide us with nutrients but fortified foods are much better as some nutrients are absorbed better when they are combined.

The WHO supports and promotes food fortification as a cost-effective strategy for improving public health. Many countries have regulations and standards governing food fortification to ensure safety and efficacy. Certain population groups, such as pregnant women, infants, and the elderly, may have specific nutritional needs. Fortifying foods that are commonly consumed by these groups can help address their unique requirements.

Commonly fortified vitamins include vitamin A, vitamin D, and certain B-vitamins (e.g., folic acid, niacin, and riboflavin). Commonly fortified minerals include iron, iodine, and calcium. Fortification is frequently applied to staple foods like rice, wheat, and maize. Fortifying milk with vitamin D and calcium is common. Iodine is often added to salt to prevent iodine deficiencies.

Fortification is often a cost-effective and sustainable approach compared to other interventions, such as supplementation programs. It leverages existing food distribution channels and infrastructure, making it accessible to a large population.