FORTIFICATION: AN EFFECTIVE STRATEGY TO COMBAT VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY
Radha Banka* and Mukta Agrawal
ABSTRACT
Vitamin D deficiency has taken form of public health problem in
present times. The impact has been observed amongst all age groups,
gender, socioeconomic status and geographical location. As there are
insufficient food sources of vitamin D, it has been suggested that
fortification is a cost-effective approach which can reach the masses.
Food industry especially those dealing with dairy and oil have started
fortification in their products, although it is not mandatory. Scientific
literature reveals that fortification helps in improving serum vitamin D
levels and improves bone health. More research in the area is desirable
to comprehensively study the overall health benefits of vitamin D
fortified foods. The available literature suggests that fortification is an effective strategy to
combat vitamin D deficiency.
Keywords: Fortification, Milk products, Vitamin D, Deficiency, 25-hydroxyvitamin D.
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