Rice Fortification for Developing Countries

摘要

One of the most fundamental decisions underlying food fortification schemes is selecting appropriate foods to be fortified with the essential micronutrients lacking in a population's diet. Criteria to identify potential food fortification vehicles generally include selecting a food that is commonly eaten by the target groups, is affordable and available all year long, and is processed in such a manner that fortification is technically feasible and can be done economically. Staple foods such as wheat flour and sugar have been popular foods to fortify in order to address micronutrient deficiencies in several developing countries. This document provides an overview of the importance of rice as a staple food and food vehicle for fortification in countries where populations suffer from micronutrient deficiencies. Available technology and current rice enrichment and fortification1 practices are reviewed. Limitations and opportunities for expanding rice enrichment and fortification programs in developing countries are identified.