Rice fortification can help tackle our problem of hidden hunger

Source: The post is based on the article “Rice fortification can help tackle our problem of hidden hunger” published in “Live Mint” on 21st September 2023.

Syllabus: GS2- Governance- Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health & GS3- Agriculture- food security

News: The article talks about hidden hunger in India, a situation where people get enough calories but lack essential nutrients, causing health problems. To combat this, India is using food fortification, adding vital nutrients to common foods like rice and salt, and the government is working to make these fortified foods available to everyone, facing challenges like raising awareness and managing costs, to improve the overall health and well-being of the population.

What is hidden hunger?

Hidden hunger occurs when people get enough food to eat, but the food lacks essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, leading to malnutrition. This condition is often concealed until noticeable health issues arise, such as impaired cognitive abilities and birth defects.

In India, it’s a significant concern, particularly affecting children’s health and development. For example, in Aspirational Districts, only about 12.32% of children aged 6-23 months receive adequate nutrition.

Additionally, inadequate protein intake and a preference for processed foods and excessive cereal consumption in the country are contributing to this issue, causing long-term health problems and affecting normal physical and mental functions among adults.

How prevalent is malnutrition in India?

Malnutrition is prevalent in India, with about 194 million people still undernourished during 2016-18.

Over 690 districts have less than 30% of children receiving proper nutrition, and 17 districts have over half their children suffering from stunting.

The prevalence of anemia among women and children in India is 61.20% on average.

The country’s average daily calorie consumption is below the recommended 2,503 kcal per capita per day.

People in India generally consume inadequate amounts of proteins, fruits, vegetables, legumes, meat, fish, and eggs.

The preference for processed foods and excessive cereal consumption in the country are also contributing to malnutrition.

What is food fortification?

Food fortification is the process of adding essential vitamins and minerals to food to improve its nutritional value. It began as a strategy to combat hidden hunger and micronutrient deficiencies.

The practice started in 1920 in the US with the addition of iodine to salt.

In India, fortification initiatives began in the 1950s with the fortification of vegetable oil and salt iodization.

Why is addressing hidden hunger important?

Impact on Individual Health: Addressing hidden hunger is crucial because it causes serious health issues like birth defects, impaired cognitive abilities in children, and maternal and infant mortality, affecting a significant number of people in India.

Consequence on Development and Productivity: It impedes optimal development in children and affects normal physical and mental functions among adults, which can lead to reduced productivity. In India, addressing this is important to avoid long-term impacts on the nation’s workforce.

Importance for Future Progress: Given India’s young demographic profile, addressing hidden hunger is essential to ensure the well-being and productive potential of the population, contributing to the overall social and economic progress of the country.

What are India’s efforts in food fortification?

Introduction of Fortification: India began food fortification in the 1950s, starting with salt iodization and vegetable oil fortification. It’s a strategy to combat hidden hunger by adding essential nutrients to common foods.

Fortification of Staples: Recently, staples like rice and wheat are also being fortified. The government aims to fortify rice in all social safety net schemes by 2024, with different phases covering various services and districts.

Implementation and Standards: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India established fortification standards in 2016 and introduced the ‘+F’ logo to facilitate food producers in joining the fortification efforts. This helps in enhancing the nutritional value of food items and improving the overall health of the population.