Iron-Rich Rice Gets 'Safe-For-All' Assurance From Food Safety And Standards Authority Of India

The Centre announced today that iron-fortified rice is safe for public consumption, citing scientific evidence to support its safety. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution stated that individuals with blood disorders like thalassemia and sickle cell anaemia are not at risk of excessive iron absorption. 

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India's food regulatory authority has removed a cautionary label from iron-fortified rice based on guidance from the country's top research body and scientific evidence affirming its safety for all individuals, including those with thalassemia and sickle cell anemia, the Centre announced on Thursday. 

The Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution stated that a scientific review conducted by a committee established by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) found no evidence to suggest that iron-fortified rice poses health risks to individuals with blood disorders.

The ministry's announcement followed a letter from health experts to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), urging the withdrawal of its July 19 directive that removed the warning label on iron-fortified food for individuals with sickle cell anemia and thalassemia.

Previously, the label advised: “People with thalassemia may take (iron-fortified products) under medical supervision, and persons with sickle cell anaemia are advised not to consume iron-fortified products.” 

However, a working group formed by the Consumer Affairs Ministry's Department of Food and Public Distribution concluded in 2023 that existing evidence does not indicate any safety risks for these individuals. The ministry added that the iron intake from fortified rice is minimal compared to the iron absorbed during blood transfusions for thalassemia patients, who typically undergo chelation therapy to manage iron overload.