Challenges in preformed Vitamin A fortification and embryofetal safety

Abstract

Food fortification with preformed vitamin A is a useful strategy to prevent nutritional deficiencies; however, its implementation involves technological and control challenges that may modify dietary exposure, particularly during pregnancy. The objective of this short communication was to analyze the persistent challenges of preformed vitamin A fortification along the agro-industrial chain and their preventive implications for embryofetal safety. A technical-narrative bibliographic analysis was conducted, based on scientific, technical, and regulatory literature published mainly between 2015 and 2026. The analysis was organized according to the main stages of the agro-industrial chain: formulation, processing, storage, labeling, and consumption. The findings indicate that premix dosage, mixing homogeneity, degradation during shelf life, compensatory overage, and labeling clarity may modify the final concentration of the micronutrient and favor excessive exposure, intra-lot variability, and cumulative exposure. During pregnancy, these conditions have preventive relevance due to the teratogenic potential of preformed vitamin A at elevated exposures. It is concluded that risk management should integrate agro-industrial control, clear labeling, and preventive guidance from public health and nutrition.