Salt Fortification
SALT FORTIFICATION
Salt is only an enhancer of taste but holds a significant nutritional value. But too much salt intake is a concern. Salt fortified with iodine & iron can prevent Iodine Deficiency Disorder (IDD) & associated health risks, particularly in populations, where access to diverse food sources is limited.
Fortification Process
FSSAI Recomendations
Benefits
Fortification Process
Salt Fortification Process:
Salt fortification is the process of adding micronutrients, primarily iodine and sometimes iron, to salt to prevent deficiencies in the population. Here’s how it works:
- Selection of Raw Salt: High-quality raw salt is chosen and cleaned to remove impurities for effective fortification.
- Iodization:
- Spraying Method: Potassium iodate (KIO₃) solution is sprayed onto the salt while it’s agitated to ensure even distribution.
- Dry Mixing: Potassium iodate powder is blended directly with salt under controlled conditions.
- Iron Fortification (Double Fortified Salt):
- Iron compounds like ferrous sulfate or ferrous fumarate are added along with iodine to address both iodine and iron deficiencies.
- Stabilizing agents prevent interaction between iodine and iron to maintain nutrient stability.
- Drying and Packaging: The fortified salt is dried, packaged in moisture-proof bags, and labeled with nutrient content and fortification logos.
FSSAI Recomendations
FSSAI Recommendations for Salt Fortification:
- Mandatory Nutrients
- Quality Standards
- Labelling Requirements
- Public Health Impact
Benefits
Benefits of Salt Fortification:
- Prevention of Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD): Fortified salt helps prevent goiter, hypothyroidism, and mental impairments caused by iodine deficiency.
- Reduction of Anemia: Double-fortified salt (iodine + iron) addresses both iodine deficiency and iron deficiency anemia, improving energy levels and productivity.
- Wide Reach: Salt is universally consumed, making it an effective vehicle for delivering essential nutrients to large populations.
- Improved Cognitive Development: Adequate iodine intake is critical for brain development in children and prevents intellectual disabilities.
- Cost-Effective Nutrition: Fortification is inexpensive and sustainable, ensuring essential nutrient delivery without significant dietary changes.
- Support for Vulnerable Groups: Fortified salt is vital for combating malnutrition in low-income and high-risk populations, especially in rural areas.
