Fermented Dairy Products as Zinc Fortification Vehicle

Abstract

Zinc is second most abundant trace mineral in our body after iron. In recent years zinc is gaining attention, as its deficiency is widespread across the world. Most foods are low in zinc content therefore fortification is very stable long term approach to control zinc deficiency. Fermented milk products consumption has increased drastically in recent time due to their functional properties and high nutritive values. Fermented products having certain specific ingredients with specific health benefits could be of potential interest. Milk fermented products are very effective vehicles for zinc fortification due its popularity in many ethical population including vegetarians who do not consume meat but they consume fermented dairy products. Zinc fortification is a fruitful strategy in order to prevent zinc deficiency especially for risk groups such as elderly, vegetarians, lactating women and children. Fermented milk foods can be served as better vehicle for zinc fortification than cereals and other plant based sources.