Impact of fortified rice on the nutritional status of preschool children

Abstract

Micronutrient deficiencies, particularly in preschool-aged children, are a critical public health challenge in developing countries. These deficiencies, often caused by monotonous diets and insufficient intake of nutrient-rich foods, can impair physical growth, cognitive development, and overall health. Food fortification has emerged as a cost-effective and sustainable intervention to combat micronutrient deficiencies. This study examines the impact of fortified rice consumption on the nutritional status of preschool children in Thrissur and Thiruvananthapuram districts, Kerala, India. The study evaluates the effects of fortified rice on the nutritional status of preschool children by focusing on various nutritional indicators, including clinical assessments of deficiencies. The results indicate significant differences in the nutritional status of children in the intervention group (fortified rice) compared to the control group (regular rice), especially in terms of the intake of essential nutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12.