FA

Importance of fortified milk in children's diets

Optimal growth in children—especially those aged 5 to 12—depends on a diverse diet rich in essential nutrients. Sufficient intake of nutrients not only supports brain development and cognitive function but also helps prevent micronutrient deficiencies in children.

However, as complementary foods are introduced and the daily diet gradually becomes more varied, picky eating may emerge. This can place children at risk of nutritional deficiencies, particularly in micronutrients.

Micronutrient deficiencies—which involve a lack of essential vitamins and minerals needed to maintain cellular and molecular functions—are among the most common nutritional issues in growing children.

According to regional statistics, the most prevalent deficiencies among children in the Middle East are:

  • Vitamin D deficiency: 75%

  • Iodine deficiency: 50%

  • Iron deficiency: 40%

  • Vitamin A deficiency: 27%

Description

One of the key strategies for preventing and managing essential nutrient deficiencies is food fortification. According to nutrition experts, food fortification is considered the most effective long-term method for addressing deficiencies and increasing micronutrient intake across large segments of the population.

Selecting the appropriate fortifying agents (food carriers) is carried out at industrial, biological, and household levels, based on criteria such as socioeconomic status, age, geographic location, and the dietary habits of the target groups. Accordingly, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) identifies milk and dairy products as some of the most commonly used options for food fortification.

Despite being rich in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, selenium, protein, vitamin A, and B12, milk has relatively low levels of iron, vitamin D, and other micronutrients essential for children's development—especially during school-age years. Therefore, targeted fortification of milk with vitamin D, B vitamins, zinc, and iron can significantly contribute to children's physical growth, immune system strength, and cognitive development.

Research in the food industry has shown that powdered milk is a particularly suitable option for micronutrient fortification. Unlike liquid milk, powdered milk can be reconstituted using pre-boiled water, which helps preserve its vitamins and minerals by avoiding nutrient loss during boiling. As a result, powdered milk can be fortified with a wide range of micronutrients to meet the dietary needs of all age groups at a high quality.

It is important to note that not all fortified powdered milks are the same.
Parents should carefully select products based on their child’s specific needs—ensuring the presence of essential vitamins and minerals, and the absence of added sugar, artificial coloring, and preservatives.

Fortified milk helps compensate for the nutritional gaps in a child's daily diet. Nutritionists recommend that children consume at least two servings of fortified milk or powdered milk daily—especially one serving before bedtime.