What is the process of enrichment in nutrition?

Enrichment in nutrition specifically refers to the process of replacing nutrients that have been lost during the processing of food. When grains are refined, for instance, many of their natural vitamins and minerals, like iron and B vitamins, are stripped away. Enrichment means that these nutrients are then added back to the food to restore its nutritional value, making it closer to its original nutrient profile. This process is important for ensuring that people continue to receive essential nutrients even when consuming processed foods, which may otherwise lack them.

In contrast, the options that mention adding nutrients beyond natural amounts or supplementing diets for specific needs involve different concepts in nutritional practices. Enrichment focuses on restoring nutrients to their original levels rather than enhancing them beyond what is naturally found. Lastly, incorporating diverse food sources is more about encouraging a varied diet to improve overall nutrition rather than specifically addressing nutrient loss during processing.