. 22/10/2024 1:44 PM
Why in News?
On October 17, 2024, the Indian Centre defended its initiative to supply fortified rice aimed at combating widespread micronutrient deficiencies. This comes amid growing safety concerns and claims that the program primarily benefits multinational companies. The Union Food Ministry reaffirmed that iron-fortified rice is safe for all consumers, adhering to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines and recognized globally as a vital nutritional intervention.
Definition
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) defines fortification as the deliberate addition of essential micronutrients to food to enhance its nutritional quality and provide public health benefits with minimal health risks.
Need for Fortification of Rice
India faces alarming levels of malnutrition, particularly among women and children. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), every second woman is affected by anemia, and one in three children is stunted. Deficiencies in iron, Vitamin B12, and folic acid are widespread, severely impacting overall health and productivity.
Rice is a staple food for two-thirds of India’s population, making it an ideal candidate for fortification. With per capita rice consumption averaging 6.8 kg per month, enhancing rice with micronutrients can significantly benefit the diets of lower-income groups.
Fortification Process
Fortification technologies include coating, dusting, and extrusion, with extrusion being the most effective for India. In this process, dry rice flour is mixed with micronutrients and water, passed through an extruder to create fortified rice kernels (FRKs). These kernels are then blended with regular rice at a ratio of 10 grams of FRKs to 1 kg of rice.
Nutrient Content
According to FSSAI standards, fortified rice should contain:
Iron: 28 mg - 42.5 mg
Folic Acid: 75 - 125 micrograms
Vitamin B12: 0.75 - 1.25 micrograms
Fortified rice may also include other micronutrients such as zinc, vitamin A, and various B vitamins.
Cooking and Consumption
Fortified rice can be prepared and consumed like regular rice, retaining its micronutrient levels even after cooking. The packaging is marked with a logo (‘+F’) and labeled as “Fortified with Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12,” ensuring transparency for consumers.
In 2015, Prime Minister Modi announced the goal to fortify rice distributed under government schemes, such as the Public Distribution System (PDS) and Mid-Day Meal Scheme, by 2024. The initiative has been rolled out in phases:
Phase 1: Implementation in Integrated Child Development Services and PM POSHAN by March 2022.
Phase 2: Coverage for PDS and welfare schemes in 112 Aspirational Districts by March 2023.
Phase 3: Full nationwide coverage by March 2024.
Manufacturers and Premix Suppliers
India boasts 1,023 rice kernel manufacturers producing 111 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) of fortified rice annually—significantly exceeding the program’s requirement of 5.20 LMT. Additionally, 232 premix suppliers contribute 75 LMT annually, well above the 0.104 LMT needed.
Expansion of Fortification Infrastructure
The rice fortification ecosystem has expanded considerably, with over 21,000 out of 30,000 operational rice mills now equipped with blending equipment. This expansion allows for a monthly production capacity of 223 LMT of fortified rice, meeting and surpassing current demands.
Distribution Mechanism
Distribution occurs through government schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), Integrated Child Development Service (ICDS), and PM POSHAN. Recently, the government approved the continuation of universal fortified rice supply under all Union government schemes from July 2024 until December 2028.
The Union Food Ministry reiterated that scientific evidence supports the safety of iron-fortified rice for all consumers. Following WHO guidelines, the government emphasized that fortified rice is a globally recognized practice aimed at improving public health.
Health Advisory for Fortified Rice Packaging
Initially, fortified rice packaging was required to include a health advisory for individuals with Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Anaemia, as mandated under the Food Safety and Standards (Fortification of Foods) Regulations, 2018. However, a scientific committee questioned this necessity, noting the absence of similar mandates in other countries.
Safety Assessment for Individuals with Hemoglobinopathies
A working group from the Ministry evaluated the safety of iron-fortified rice for individuals with hemoglobinopathies—conditions such as Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Anaemia. They concluded that current scientific evidence does not indicate any safety concerns for these individuals consuming fortified rice.
Iron Intake in Thalassemia Patients
The Ministry clarified that the iron intake from fortified rice is minimal compared to that absorbed through blood transfusions in Thalassemia patients. Furthermore, fortified rice undergoes chelation to manage any potential iron overload.
Iron Absorption in Sickle Cell Anaemia Patients
Individuals with Sickle Cell Anaemia are less likely to absorb excess iron from fortified rice due to their naturally high levels of hepcidin, a hormone that regulates iron absorption, thereby mitigating concerns about iron overload in these patients.
The Centre's commitment to fortifying rice is a significant step toward addressing malnutrition in India. By adhering to international guidelines and leveraging local resources, the initiative aims to enhance the nutritional quality of a staple food, ultimately improving public health outcomes for millions of citizens. The ongoing expansion and rigorous safety assessments reflect the government's dedication to transparency and health equity.
