Fortified Rice Kernels

Fortified Rice Kernels (FRKs) are rice grains that have been enriched with vitamins and minerals to improve their nutritional value.

Fortified Rice Kernels (FRKs) are either coated rice kernels or extruded rice-shaped kernels prepared with a mix of vitamins and minerals. Sometimes a powdery blend of nutrients is dusted onto unfortified rice, but this is only useful in countries where consumers do not wash rice before cooking it.

Rice Kernels can be fortified with several micronutrients, such as Iron, Folic Acid and other B-complex Vitamins, Vitamin A and Zinc – some are used for restitution of the intrinsic nutritional contents prior to milling and others are used for fortification purposes.

How FRKs are made:

FRKs are made by blending a nutrient mixture with rice flour and shaping it into rice-like kernels.

How FRKs are used:

FRKs are mixed with regular rice at a ratio of 0.5-2%. The final product has a similar aroma, taste, and texture to traditional rice.

Why FRKs are important:

FRKs are important because they help address micronutrient deficiencies, which can lead to health problems like anaemia, impaired immune function, and developmental delays.

How FRKs are regulated:

In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) prescribes standards for enriching rice with micronutrients like Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12.

Benefits of Fortified Rice Kernels

Fortified rice kernels (FRKs) are nutritious and can help address malnutrition and anemia. They are made by adding vitamins and minerals to regular rice, such as Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12. Fortified rice can help improve health in several ways: 

Anemia Prevention:

Fortified rice with iron can help combat anemia by increasing hemoglobin levels and improving vitality.

Cognitive Boost:

B-complex vitamins in fortified rice can enhance mental function. 

Public Health:

Fortified rice is a cost-effective solution to address widespread nutrient deficiencies

Accessible:

Fortified rice is widely consumed and doesn't require a change in dietary habits.