Fortification

Fortification refers to the process of enhancing food by adding essential nutrients to prevent deficiencies and improve health. This practice can involve adding vitamins, minerals, or other beneficial substances to commonly consumed items, like salt, flour, or cereals. For example, iodine is added to salt to prevent thyroid issues, and folic acid is added to bread to reduce the risk of certain birth defects. Fortification aims to improve public health, especially in populations at risk of nutritional deficiencies, thereby contributing to better overall health outcomes.