Tackling Malnutrition with Fortified Rice
India has been grappling with widespread malnutrition, especially among women and children. Data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) highlights that:
- 50% of women in India are anaemic.
- 33% of children are stunted.
Deficiencies in iron, folic acid, and Vitamin B12 are key contributors to these troubling statistics. Fortifying rice, a staple food for the majority of the population, is seen as an effective solution to bridge these nutritional gaps.
Why Fortify Rice?
Rice is consumed by two-thirds of India’s population, making it an ideal vehicle for fortification. With an average per capita consumption of 6.8 kg of rice per month, fortifying it with micronutrients helps improve dietary intake, especially for low-income communities. Fortified rice can supply much-needed nutrients to millions of households.
How Does Rice Fortification Work?
Fortified rice kernels (FRKs) are created using extrusion technology, where dry rice flour is mixed with micronutrients like iron, Vitamin B12, and folic acid. These kernels are blended with regular rice at a ratio of 10 grams of FRK per 1 kg of rice to ensure uniform distribution of nutrients. Fortified rice retains its nutritional content even after cooking.
Each kilogram of fortified rice contains:
- Iron: 28-42.5 mg
- Folic Acid: 75-125 micrograms
- Vitamin B12: 0.75-1.25 micrograms
Government’s Fortification Rollout
The rice fortification program has expanded rapidly since its launch in 2015. In several phases, the government has integrated fortified rice into key welfare schemes like the Public Distribution System (PDS) and the Mid-Day Meal Scheme:
- Phase 1 (completed by March 2022): Fortified rice distribution under ICDS and PM POSHAN.
- Phase 2 (completed by March 2023): Fortified rice introduced in 112 Aspirational Districts.
- Phase 3 (targeted for completion by March 2024): Nationwide rollout across all government schemes.
In October 2024, the government extended the distribution of fortified rice under these schemes until December 2028.
Addressing Safety Concerns for All Consumers
Recent concerns have been raised about the potential impact of iron-fortified rice on individuals with hemoglobinopathies such as thalassemia and sickle cell anemia. These conditions affect red blood cells and can lead to complications related to iron absorption.
A scientific review conducted by the Food Ministry concluded that there is no risk of iron overload from fortified rice in such individuals. The report highlighted:
- For thalassemia patients, the iron intake from fortified rice is negligible compared to the iron absorbed from regular blood transfusions.
- Individuals with sickle cell anemia are unlikely to absorb excess iron due to naturally elevated levels of hepcidin, which regulates iron absorption in the body.
Conclusion: Moving Forward with Fortified Rice
Despite the concerns, the Indian government is standing firm on its commitment to fortify rice to fight malnutrition. Fortified rice is scientifically proven to be safe for consumption and adheres to WHO standards. As the nationwide rollout progresses, millions will benefit from the nutritional boost provided by fortified rice, especially in vulnerable communities.
With plans to continue distributing fortified rice under government schemes for the next few years, the Centre aims to make significant strides in addressing India’s malnutrition challenge.