Why might consumers choose fortified foods?

Fortified foods are those that have been enriched with additional nutrients that may not be present in sufficient quantities in a person's diet. Consumers often choose fortified foods to enhance their nutritional intake and ensure they are meeting their dietary requirements. For example, common fortifications include adding vitamins like D or B12, minerals such as iron or calcium, or omega-3 fatty acids.

This choice is particularly relevant for individuals who may have specific dietary restrictions, such as vegetarians or individuals with food allergies, who might miss out on essential nutrients from certain food groups. Additionally, fortified foods can help address widespread nutrient deficiencies in the population, such as iron deficiency anemia or vitamin D deficiency, due to factors like lifestyle, geographical location, or dietary choices.

In contrast, while avoiding preservatives, reducing calories, or supporting local farming may be valid considerations for some consumers, they do not directly relate to the purpose of fortified foods, which is to provide extra nutritional benefits rather than focus on these other aspects.