Impact assessment of fortified rice under the public distribution system: evidence from the tribal regions of Gujarat.

INTRODUCTION: Staple food fortification is a globally recognized method for reducing micronutrient deficiencies. India started its food fortification journey in the 1950's with the fortification of Vanaspati. Over the years, several food vehicles, such as double fortified salt, oil, wheat flour, and rice, have been studied. Based on the mixed results observed, the Government of India launched the Central pilot scheme on "Fortification of rice and its distribution under the public distribution system" in 2019. This scheme was launched across 15 districts of India. The major aim of this study was to assess the impact of routine consumption of fortified rice distributed via the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) on haemoglobin, ferritin, folate and vitamin B12 levels.

METHODS: A simple random sampling method was used to enroll 452 women of reproductive age. Using a purposive sampling technique and inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 167 WRA were enrolled for the intervention phase. Fortified rice procured from the Targeted public distribution system was monitored for a period of 6 months and 1 year. Micronutrient level was found to be as per the FSSAI, 2018 regulations (Iron, 40.13 mg; Folate, 93.66 µg; and Vitamin B12, 0.89 µg per kg of fortified rice).

RESULTS: It was found that fortified rice intervention helped in improving hemoglobin levels (capillary group: 0.52 g/dL; p = 0.005 and venous group: 0.55 g/dL; p = 0.001); however, no significant improvements were observed in serum ferritin, folate, and vitamin B12.

CONCLUSION: Routine consumption of fortified rice significantly improved haemoglobin levels; however, no significant improvements were observed in ferritin, folate, and vitamin B12 levels.