The decision was taken following a study conducted by IIT Kharagpur to evaluate the shelf life of fortified rice (FRK) and fortified rice (FR) in different agro-climatic zones of the country under practical storage conditions. Key factors such as moisture content, temperature, relative humidity, storage conditions and packaging materials “severely” affect the stability of fortified rice, the study found.
According to the official release, the study concluded that FRK and FR “are susceptible to micronutrient reduction and reduced shelf life during long-term storage and daily handling. This reduction results in a shorter than expected effective shelf life, which in turn limits expected nutritional results.”
The Ministry of Food noted that rice procured for distribution is usually stored for 2 to 3 years due to high buffer stocks. With an annual allocation of 372 million tonnes under PMGKAY and other welfare schemes, the total supply from the central pool is expected to be 674 million tonnes, including the expected revenue for the Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2025-26. Extended storage times have become a key challenge in maintaining micronutrient stability.
“In light of these findings, it was decided to temporarily halt rice fortification until a more robust and efficient nutrient delivery mechanism is developed and operational,” the ministry said.
It also said the government’s move would not result in a reduction in the beneficiaries’ food entitlements.
Prime Minister delivered a speech at the Red Fort on August 15, 2021
Narendra Modi Announced mandatory fortification of rice distributed through government schemes including PDS and PM POSHAN by 2024 to combat malnutrition. The program aims to provide rice rich in iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 to disadvantaged groups across the country.