Enrichments

Enrichments are not a single ingredient but a category of added nutrients. These are typically vitamins and minerals that are not naturally present in a food or are added to replace those lost during processing. They are often added to refined grains like flour to boost their nutritional value.

Manufacturers add enrichments to foods to increase their vitamin and mineral content, helping to address potential nutrient gaps in the diet. This is common in products made with refined grains, such as bread, pasta, rice, and cereals, as well as some dairy products and plant-based milk alternatives.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) permits the addition of certain vitamins and minerals to foods to improve public health. These added nutrients are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) or approved food additives. International bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have also evaluated many of these nutrients. At typical consumption levels, added nutrients are considered safe and beneficial for most people, contributing to overall health.