HYDERABAD: Using technology developed by the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), `atta' fortified with iron, vitamin A and B12 is being made available through the Public Distribution System in the districts of Ranga Reddy and Warangal.

Speaking to presspersons here recently, B. Sesikeran, who took charge as NIN Director, said the effort was to address micronutrient deficiency problems such as iron, iodine and vitamin A by way of fortification. Taken up on an experimental basis, the `atta' was being made available at Rs.12 per kg.

Addressing osteoporosis

The NIN has also taken up an initiative in the area of osteoporosis to understand the effect of lactation on bone calcium losses that ultimately lead to thinning of bones at an earlier age among women. The researchers are trying to identify the critical periods where maximum loss of calcium occurs. "The idea is to identify and supplement calcium at these critical junctures and try to postpone osteoporosis," Dr.Sesikeran said.

The institute has compiled a database with nutritive values of some 650 commonly consumed Indian foods and the same is being updated.

A research project to create knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices of communities on food safety is also in progress.

Indian masala

The institute's cancer study group has systematically demonstrated the anti-cancer and antioxidant properties of several Indian spices. "Part of our `masala', spices such as turmeric and garlic are very rich in these properties.

All along, we have been using them in our cuisine but now we know their importance," he said. The Pre-clinical Toxicology Group has been carrying out safety studies for new biotech products and herbal drugs and a division to assess safety as well as detection of Genetically Modified foods is being set up.

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