Whole grain rice fortification as a solution to micronutrient deficiency: Technologies and need for more viable alternatives

Rice fortification is an effective and economical strategy to increase micronutrient intake in countries where rice is a staple food. A successful fortification technology should deliver substantial micronutrient content, high bioavailability, stability during storage, and retention in sensory attributes. This article provides an extensive review of the available whole-grain fortification technologies conducted at the pre and post-harvest stages of rice processing. Soaking, parboiling, coating, germination, foliar spray, fertilization, dusting are some of the non-destructive techniques extensively employed for rice fortification with Fe, Zn, Ca, Se, I, vitamins and other micronutrients. An in-depth analysis has been taken-up on processing parameters, required facilities, and additives required. Conclusions have been drawn based upon physical property, chemical attributes, storage, washing and cooking stability, and bioavailability of fortified rice. The summarized data on prospects and drawbacks would provide background information to carry out research-based developments in whole grain rice fortification and making further innovations.