Which micronutrient is mandatory for fortification in table salt?

AIIMS CRE, SNO-2024

Applied Nutrition & Dietetics

Easy

Appeared in: AIIMS CRE, SNO-2024

Explanation

Iodine is the mandatory micronutrient for the fortification of table salt under the Universal Salt Iodization (USI) program.
This public health measure is a global strategy to prevent Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD), which affect growth and development.
Salt is an ideal vehicle for fortification because it is consumed consistently by all population segments, and adding iodine does not change its taste or appearance.
Iodine is essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which are critical for brain development and metabolic regulation.

Option A: Iron is not the universally mandated fortificant for all table salt. While iron deficiency anemia is a major public health concern, iron is more commonly used to fortify staples like flour and cereals.
Option C: Calcium is not fortified in table salt. It is essential for bone health, but the chosen vehicles for fortification are typically dairy products, plant-based milks, and breakfast cereals.
Option D: Magnesium is not used for salt fortification. It is naturally present in many foods like leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains, so widespread fortification is not considered necessary.

Visual 1: Infographic - A map showing the prevalence of Iodine Deficiency Disorders worldwide and the impact of salt iodization programs.
Visual 2: Diagram - A simple flowchart illustrating how iodine from salt is used by the thyroid gland to produce T3 and T4 hormones, and their effect on the body.
Visual 3: Image - A picture of a patient with a goiter to visually represent the most common sign of iodine deficiency.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Micronutrient fortification in public health as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a key role in identifying signs of Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD), such as goiter or developmental delays in children, especially in endemic areas.
Patient education is a critical nursing function. Nurses should be able to explain the importance of using iodized salt to pregnant women and families to prevent conditions like cretinism.
What if? If a patient from a remote, mountainous region presents with fatigue, weight gain, and a swollen neck, the nurse should consider iodine deficiency-induced hypothyroidism as a possible cause and ensure appropriate screening is initiated.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question: it asks for a mandatory micronutrient used for fortifying table salt.
This is a factual recall question related to public health and nutrition programs.
Think about common, large-scale food fortification initiatives you have studied. Salt iodization is one of the most well-known global health success stories.
Evaluate the options. Iodine is directly linked to salt fortification to prevent goiter and other deficiency disorders.
Consider the other options: Iron is fortified in flour, calcium in milk, and magnesium is not typically fortified on a large scale. This confirms iodine is the most plausible answer.
Select the option that aligns with this major public health program.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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