Fortified Foods 101: Beyond Milk & Cereal

When we think of fortified foods, milk and breakfast cereals usually come to mind. But in 2025, food fortification has expanded far beyond that. From fortified rice and wheat flour to edible oils enriched with Vitamin D, fortification is now a key strategy to fight hidden hunger in India and worldwide.

What Are Fortified Foods?

Fortified foods are everyday staples that have been enriched with essential vitamins and minerals. According to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), fortification helps address widespread deficiencies of iron, folic acid, vitamin A, vitamin D, and iodine in the Indian population.

Examples of Fortified Foods in India

• Fortified Rice – Enriched with iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12.
• Fortified Wheat Flour (Atta) – Contains iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12.
• Fortified Edible Oil – Fortified with vitamin A and D.
• Double Fortified Salt – Contains iodine and iron.
• Packaged Snacks & Beverages – Now often fortified with micronutrients.