Probing the metagenome and nutritional composition of idli batter fortified with electrolytic iron for addressing anaemia

Iron deficiency affects people throughout the world, with preschoolers having the highest frequency followed by women of reproductive age and pregnant mothers. Of the different approaches to reducing iron deficiency, food fortification is a desirable and easily acceptable public health approach. Additionally, food fortification is proven to be economical and offers the benefit of reaching a larger population through current food delivery systems without necessitating significant adjustments to current consumption habits. In light of this, idli, a widely popular and commonly consumed fermented staple breakfast from Southern India, is chosen as a delivery system for addressing iron deficiency. Furthermore, because of its high nutritional content and ease of digestion, idli is eaten by people of all ages. The fortificant’s bioavailability will also be successful during idli fermentation. Therefore, following the necessary dietary requirement, the readily accessible form of electrolytic iron is added to the idli batter, and its impact on the microbiological, nutritional, and sensory quality of idli was assessed. A metagenome investigation demonstrated that the fermentation microflora of idli batter was unaffected by electrolytic iron fortification with more probiotic microbiota during fermentation. It has been found that electrolytic iron at 9 mg, or 30% Recommended Dietary Allowance, has superior sensory qualities and bioavailability.