  2001 AACC Annual Meeting Charlotte, North Carolina October 14-18, 2001 Charlotte Convention Center  |
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Rice as a food vehicle for fortification to address micronutrient deficiencies. P. Dexter. Institute of Food Science and Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72704.
One of the most fundamental decisions underlying food fortification schemes is selecting appropriate foods to be fortified with the essential micronutrients lacking in a population's diet. Rice is the most popular cereal consumed worldwide. Micronutrient deficiencies are common in many rice-consuming countries. This paper provides an overview of the importance of rice as a staple food and food vehicle for fortification in regions where populations suffer from micronutrient deficiencies. The history of rice enrichment and fortification practices is reviewed. An overview of the current technology and rice enrichment practices in commercial use is provided addressing concerns related to nutrient stability, bioavailability and sensory evaluation. Constraints and opportunities for expanding rice fortification programs are identified.
Copyright 2001
The American Association of Cereal Chemists