What is the main purpose of public policies requiring added vitamins and minerals in foods?

The main purpose of public policies that require the addition of vitamins and minerals to foods is to increase the nutrient value of food products. These policies are typically implemented to address specific public health concerns, such as deficiencies in essential nutrients among the population. By fortifying foods with vital vitamins and minerals, the aim is to improve the overall nutrient profile of commonly consumed products, helping to ensure that individuals receive adequate nutrition. This is particularly important in populations that may be at risk for deficiencies due to various factors such as limited dietary diversity, socioeconomic constraints, or specific health conditions.

In contrast, reducing production costs for manufacturers does not typically align with the public health goals behind such policies, as the focus is primarily on improving nutrition rather than minimizing costs. Enhancing the taste of food products is not a central objective of fortification policies; while some fortified foods may taste better due to added nutrients, this is not the primary aim. Lastly, providing nutritional information to consumers is important for informed dietary choices, but the focus of these policies is squarely on increasing the nutrient content of the food itself rather than just conveying information about it.