Rice Fortification
RICE FORTIFICATION
Good nutrition is the cornerstone of a healthy and prosperous society. However, millions of people around the world suffer from malnutrition. Rice fortification involving adding essential vitamins & minerals to rice during the rice milling process. Common fortification includes Iron, VitaminA, Folic acid & zinc. It holds immense promise in the fight against malnutrition.
Rice Fortification Process:
Rice fortification involves coating or blending rice kernels with essential micronutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12.
This can be done through techniques such as extrusion, where fortified rice kernels are produced using a mix of rice flour and nutrients, or dusting, where fine nutrient powders are adhered to the surface of rice grains.
The micronutrient premix are then blended with regular rice in a specified ratio, usually 1:100, ensuring even nutrient distribution.
FSSAI Guidelines for Rice Fortification:
- Micronutrients for Fortification
- Fortification Techniques
- Labelling and Branding
- Target Programs
Micronutrient Premix are nutrient-enriched grains designed to blend seamlessly with regular rice, providing essential vitamins and minerals like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12. These kernels help combat micronutrient deficiencies while maintaining the taste and texture of natural rice.
Benefits of Micronutrient Premix:
- Nutritional Boost: Enriched with essential nutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12, they help combat anemia and other micronutrient deficiencies.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Affordable and scalable for addressing malnutrition in vulnerable populations.
- Seamless Integration: Blend easily with regular rice without altering taste, texture, or cooking properties.
- Healthier Communities: Improve energy levels, cognitive function, and overall public health.
- Support Government Programs: Essential for initiatives like PDS, Mid-Day Meals, and ICDS to enhance nutritional outcomes.
