The Union Food Ministry said scientific evidence suggested that iron-fortified rice was safe for consumption for everyone and people suffering from blood disorders such as Thalassemia and Sickle Cell anemia are not at risk of excessive iron absorption.

Centre Defends Fortified Rice Initiative Amid Safety Concerns and Multinational Allegations

• There were concerns of safety raised over the consumption of fortified rice and the complaint that the approval for its universal supply was to please certain multinational companies.
• Centre clarified that fortified rice was an ambitious initiative to combat micronutrient deficiencies.

What is Fortification?

• Fortification is the process of adding nutrients to food products that are not naturally present or are present in insufficient amounts.
• Rice Fortification: Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK), containing FSSAI prescribed micronutrients (Iron, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12)  are added to normal Rice in the ratio of 1:100 (Mixing 1 Kg of FRK with 100 Kg custom milled rice).
• Standard for Fortified rice: According to FSSAI norms 1 kg fortified rice shall contain Iron (28 mg-42.5 mg), folic acid (75-125 microgram) and Vitamin B-12 (0.75-1.25 microgram).
  • Fortified rice is nearly identical to traditional rice in aroma, taste, and texture. 
• Process is done in the rice mills at the time of milling of rice.

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Need of Rice Fortification

• India has very high levels of malnutrition among women and children.
• Iron deficiency affects more than two billion people globally causing anaemia, weakness, impaired learning and increased risk of infections and maternal mortality.
• Rice is a staple diet for one-third of the Global Population and the majority of the population in India rely on rice.
• Distribution of Fortified Rice through Public Dstribution System can help India fight against the problem of Malnutrition and Anaemia.

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