Fortification of Wheat Flour with Vitamins and Minerals as a Public Health Strategy

Patient Guideline Summary

Publication Date: June 3, 2022

Objective

Objective

This patient summary means to discuss key recommendations from the World Health Organization for the fortification of wheat flour with vitamins and minerals as a public health strategy.

Overview

Overview

  • Wheat is a worldwide food staple. However, it does not contain all the necessary nutrients in adequate amounts. Among these are:
    • B-complex vitamins include B1, (thiamine), B2, (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6, (pyridoxine), B9, (folate), and B12, (cyanocobalamin).
    • Other possible additions are vitamins A and D, iron, calcium, iodine, and zinc.
  • This patient summary focuses on providing locally adaptable, clear, evidence-informed global recommendations on the fortification of wheat flour with vitamins and minerals.

Treatment

Treatment

  • The Guideline discusses in detail the process for adding nutrients to flour on an international level.
  • Consideration is advanced for specific regions that have greater deficiencies that should be addressed more locally.
  • A well-rounded diet is superior to food supplements, so supplementation of staple foods is recommended only where a balanced diet is unavailable.

Source Citation

Guideline: Fortification of Wheat Flour with Vitamins and Minerals as a Public Health Strategy [Internet]. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2022. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK581357/

Disclaimer

The information in this patient summary should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.