næringsforsterkning

Næringsforsterkning refers to the process of adding extra nutrients to food products. This is done to increase the nutritional value of a food that might be lacking in certain vitamins, minerals, or other beneficial compounds, or to compensate for nutrient loss during processing. The goal is often to improve public health by addressing common dietary deficiencies or to enhance the health benefits of specific foods.

There are several methods of næringsforsterkning. Fortification involves adding nutrients that are not naturally present in the food, or adding them in higher concentrations than they would normally occur. Enrichment, on the other hand, involves restoring nutrients that have been lost during processing, such as adding B vitamins back to refined grains. Biofortification is a newer approach that involves breeding crops to have higher levels of micronutrients.

Examples of næringsforsterkning are widespread. Many countries fortify staple foods like flour with iron and folic acid to prevent anemia and neural tube defects. Milk is often fortified with vitamin D to aid calcium absorption and promote bone health. Iodine is added to salt to prevent thyroid disorders. Cereals are commonly fortified with a range of vitamins and minerals.

The effectiveness of næringsforsterkning is generally well-established, but it is important to ensure that the added nutrients are bioavailable and that the process does not negatively impact the food's safety or quality. Regulatory bodies often oversee næringsforsterkning programs to set standards and ensure consumer safety. It plays a significant role in global public health strategies for improving nutrition.