Vitamin D has lately made the news because of claims that it may be associated with COVID-19. And, if that’s the case, how can we improve our situation, and what does the food industry’s future hold in terms of vitamin D?
Role of Vitamin D in One’s Body
Since vitamin D works closely in conjunction with calcium and phosphorus, vitamin D is known to act in the development of teeth, bones, and muscles. Moreover, this vitamin also has a role in the immune system which supports its association to Covid-19. However, the evidence is only limited and not yet conclusive.
Vitamin D Fortification
Even though vitamin D is vital for health, current intake levels are inadequate. So, what options do you have? What is the food industry’s response? There can be an overwhelming array of fortified foods and beverages when browsing a grocery aisle.
Using a ‘food first’ method may provide clear consumer benefits by requiring minimal changes to an individual’s regular diet while enhancing nutrient consumption. Cereals, juices, spreads, milk, and dairy products are some of the most common sources of vitamin D.
Conclusion
Vitamin D is critical for our general health, especially when it comes to bone and immunological function. Despite this, vitamin D consumption and status are still poor. As a result, we must develop new food-based approaches to combat this significant problem. This gives the food sector a chance to delve deeper into fortification and biofortification options.