An In-Depth Analysis of Iron-Enhanced Processed Foods Accessible on E-Commerce Platforms

¹ M.Sc. Student, Chandigarh University, Punjab - 140413, India
² Associate Professor, Chandigarh University, Punjab - 140413, India

^* Corresponding email: prachiabhatnagar@gmail.com

Abstract

Governments of nearly all countries have developed programs and policies to fight against anaemia. However, the data depict an inevitable presence of the deficiency among almost one-third of the global population. Iron delivery by diet seems to be a workable, affordable, and long-term solution. According to numerous clinical trials, one of the best ways to prevent iron deficiency is to consume meals rich in or enriched with iron. Iron supplementation through diet, however, has shown to have minimal side effects. Therefore, scope of novel iron-rich ingredients and iron-fortified goods that are more affordable, more stable, and have a high bioavailability, is vast. Modern processing techniques open plentiful avenues to achieve more effective fortification of such food items. This review focuses on delivery of this vital micronutrient through supplementation techniques and their applicability in addressing iron needs of populations, especially the vulnerable groups. The evaluations reveal consumer perceptions, nutritional value, and market availability on online platforms, the greatest sources of iron fortification and delivery and continue to be the most widely accessible foods, including cereals, baked goods, dairy products, drinks, and condiments.