FDA to update rules on vitamin D fortification of plant-based dairy alternatives
Currently, manufacturers are allowed to fortify soy beverages with vitamin D2 at up to 50IU/100g. After the rule change, manufacturers will be able to fortify soy, rice, almond, coconut and other plant-based beverages and yogurt intended as dairy alternatives at levels not to exceed 84IU/100g.
They will also be allowed to add up to 84IU/100g of vitamin D3 to dairy milk (the current upper limit is 42IU/100g).
The move comes at a time when there is more focus on vitamin D, which manufacturers will be required to include on the Nutrition Facts panel of foods and beverages from summer 2018.
The daily value for vitamin D - which is important for bone development and general health – is also increasing from 10 mcg to 20 mcg (click HERE for details).
According to the FDA, analysis of NHANES 2005-2008 dietary data showed that the vast majority (94%) of the US population had vitamin D intakes below the EAR (estimated average requirement) from conventional foods only, while 62% of Americans were still below the EAR if you include vitamin D intakes from dietary supplements in addition to food.
