In India, a major health challenge is the widespread deficiency of essential micronutrients like iron, zinc, and calcium. Many people in the country, especially those from lower-income backgrounds, struggle with these nutrient deficiencies, which can lead to serious health issues. Fortification – adding essential nutrients to food – is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to address this problem. Since millets are a staple food for many people and cost less than other cereals, they are an ideal food to carry added nutrients, making them a "vehicle" for fortification.
Why Millets are Ideal for Fortification
Millets like finger millet, pearl millet, and barnyard millet are not only nutritious but also widely grown across India. These grains naturally contain many beneficial nutrients, and they can easily be enriched with even more vitamins and minerals. This makes them an excellent choice for fortification.
Key Nutrients for Fortification:
1. Iron - Essential for maintaining healthy blood and preventing anemia.
2. Zinc - Important for immune health, growth, and overall development.
3. Calcium - Vital for bone health and preventing osteoporosis.
4. Vitamins - Help in various body functions and maintaining overall health.
Nutritional Benefits of Millets
Millets are already among the most nutritious grains, often more so than refined flours. They contain a good mix of fiber, protein, and other minerals, which can help improve overall health when included regularly in the diet. Additionally, millets can be used in a variety of foods, from traditional dishes like roti to newer options in bakery products, which are now starting to incorporate millet flour as a healthier alternative to refined flour.
Studies on Millet Fortification
Research has shown that certain types of millet, like finger millet, are especially suitable for fortification. For example, studies have demonstrated that finger millet flour can be enriched with zinc, providing additional bioavailable zinc. This means that fortified millet flour can help combat zinc deficiency with good storage stability, making it an excellent solution for nutrient deficiency over time.
Iron is another nutrient that can be effectively added to millet flours. Studies indicate that fortifying millet with iron can help combat iron deficiency, which is as widespread and problematic as zinc deficiency. Sensory tests, where people tasted food made with fortified millet flours, showed that while there was slight discoloration in items like dumplings, the taste and quality of items like roti were acceptable to those who tried them.
Practical Uses of Fortified Millets in Daily Life:
Fortified millets can be used to make various foods, including traditional Indian dishes as well as modern bakery items. For instance:
*Roti and Flatbreads: These are popular foods that can be made with fortified millet flour, offering a healthier and nutrient-rich alternative to regular wheat flour.
*Bakery Products: Millet flour is now being incorporated into bakery products, making it possible to enjoy more nutritious versions of breads, cookies, and even cakes.
Conclusion
Fortifying staple foods with essential nutrients is a cost-effective way to address India's problem of nutrient deficiency. By incorporating fortified millets into everyday meals, people across the country, especially those with limited access to diverse foods, can gain essential nutrients in a sustainable and affordable way.
So informative.
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