DESC:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a food product enriched with micronutrients and plant bioactives and a method of preparation thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
In recent times, there is a high demand for functional foods which in addition to the nutrition value also provide health benefits to the consumers. Such functional food products are ready-to-eat, convenient, cheap and can be consumed by all age groups as breakfast, meal, supper or anytime as a snack. According to the European Consensus ‘a food can be regarded as functional if it is satisfactorily demonstrated to affect beneficially one or more target functions in the body, beyond adequate nutritional effects, in a way that is relevant to either improved stage of health and well-being and/or reduction of risk of disease’. Functional foods can regulate the immune system through immune response enhancement or inhibition, which provide host defenses against infection, and suppress allergies and inflammation.
The spread of Coronavirus has raised the demand for immunity boosters across the globe. COVID-19 has accelerated this growing trend for functional foods. Consumers are now looking out for foods not only for its flavor and format, but its function – particularly its immune-boosting qualities.
IN-DEL-2012-01555A relates to a composition and process for the preparation of herbal formulation for pancreatic health that rejuvenates the pancreas and restores its normal functions comprises extracts of roots of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), aerial parts of Gymnema sylvestre (Gurmar), aerial parts of Centella asiatica (Mandukaparni), immature pods of Acacia nilotica (Babul) aerial parts of Phyllanthus niruri (bhuiaonla), stem of Tinospora cordifolia (Giloa) and enriched with extracts from fruits of Piper longum (Pippali). The composition is formulated into dosage forms selected from the group consisting of suitable for use in the form of powder, granules, biscuits, tablets or capsules etc for diabetics.

IN-DEL-2011-02739A relates to a novel composition and process for the preparation of a complimentary food for malnourished children and infants that is enriched with immunoglobulins and growth factors. The composition comprises microwave roasted and powdered maize (Zea mays) flour, wheat (Triticum aestivum) flour, defatted seed meal of soybean (Glycine max) and green gram (Vigna radiata) mixed with the colostrum powder and herbal extracts of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) roots, Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) leaves, Bhuiamla (Phyllanthus niruri) whole plant, drumstick (Moringa oleifera) pods (immature) and peepli (Piper longum) fruit (dried). The herbal nutraceutical product can be used in the powder, porridge, granules, biscuits, tablets, capsules or any other suitable forms.
IN288462A1 relates to composition comprising herbal constituents such as Shatavari, Aswagandha, Vidarikanda, Varanhakanda, Pimpali, Brahmi, Arjuna, Manjishtha, Amalaki, Shankhapushpi, Vakari, Chopchini, Sagargota, Dikemali, Murudsheng, Hirda, Balhirda, Kuda, Vekhand, Halkund, Kakadshingi, Nagarmotha, Ashwagandha, Suntha, Behada, Jeshthamadh, mayaphal, kumarigulwel, etc., the said nutritious composition capable of being administered in any form including powder, biscuits and like.
US8017147B2 relates to a nutritional supplement consisting of Andrographis paniculata, Azadirachta indica, Bacopa monnieri, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Cnidium officinale, Coccinia indica, Crataegus oxyacantha, Curcuma longa, Gymnema sylvestre, Juglans regia, Momordica charantia, Mucuna pruriens, Ocimum sanctum, Panax ginseng, Panax quinquefolium, Paullinia cupana, Pfaffia paniculata, Phyllanthus emblica, Phyllanthus niruri, Pinus maritima, Polygonum cuspidatum, Prunus cerasus, Punica granatum, Salacia oblonga, Scutellaria baicalensis, Silybum marianum, Syzygium cumini, Tinospora cordifolia, Trigonella foenum-graecum and Withania somnifera. The nutritional supplement can be utilized as as a food or a drink or a supplement or a drug or a cosmetic or a hygienic product.
IN202011026634 relates to a herbal immunity booster liquid formulation that provides immunity booster effects. The liquid formulation comprises tulsi, amla, giloy, ginger, ashwagandha, pipal, turmeric, blackwood apple, cinnnamon, and water. The immunity booster is formulated as a drink formulation.
Oraon et.al reports the application of various herbs such as Ashwagandha, Arjuna, Turmeric, Sage, Cinnamon, Cumin, Garlic, Fenugreek, Peppermint, Basil and Aloe vera in various dairy products. (Oraon, L., et al. "Application of herbs in functional dairy products–a review." J Dairy Vet Anim Res 5.3 (2017): 109-115.)
Currently immunity booster cookies, drinks, beverages, breads, dairy products, biscuits and the like food products containing herbal extracts are available in the market. [https://getgrowfit.com/products/delicious-wholegrain-immunity-boosting-cookies; https://www.amazon.in/BHADRES-Immunity-Biscuits-Ashwagandha-Chemical/dp/B08HS5DCCZ; https://www.amazon.in/Genuinegrain-Ashwagandha-Cookies-Immunity-Booster/dp/B08L8CGM8S?th=1; https://www.flipkart.com/tgl-co-immune-warrior-immunity-booster-tea-green-tea-amla-tulsi-giloy-cinnamon-ginger-peppermint-fennel-seeds-black-peppercorns-turmeric-ashwagandha-mint-fennel-pepper-turmeric-pouch/p/itmd3b07bb91c8cf; https://www.amazon.in/Vedapure-Immunity-Ashwagandha-Enhancing-Restoring/dp/B089S66G9V; https://anthonysgoods.com/blogs/recipes/ashwagandha-banana-bread; https://www.amazon.in/Vedically-Ashwagandha-Certified-Organic-BMPL-04 02/dp/B09BZFRG1H/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=herbal%2Bghee&qid=1643884526&sr=8-6&th=1 ]. However, these food products comprise only herbal actives as the main component.
A healthy immune system is dependent on an optimal immune function. There is a bidirectional interaction among nutrition, infection and immunity i.e. changes in one component influences the other. For example: the immune response is compromised when nutrition is poor, predisposing individuals to infections, Micronutrients have significant roles throughout the immune system. Deficiency of micronutrients is recognized as a global public health issue, and poor nutritional status predisposes to certain infections. Immune function may be improved by restoring deficient micronutrients to recommended levels, thereby increasing resistance to infection and supporting faster recovery when infected.
Food fortification or enrichment is the process of adding micronutrients (essential trace elements and vitamins) to food. As defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO), fortification refers to "the practice of deliberately increasing the content of an essential micronutrient, i.e. vitamins and minerals (including trace elements) in a food irrespective of whether the nutrients were originally in the food before processing or not, so as to improve the nutritional quality of the food supply and to provide a public health benefit with minimal risk to health,"
There is a long felt need to develop an enriched food product which can strengthen immunity of the individual in addition to fulfilling the nutritional requirements, reduces risk of infections, affordable, longer shelf life and has stability.
The present inventors have surprisingly developed an enriched food product which fulfills the aforesaid requirements and ameliorates the shortcomings of the prior art formulations.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to provide a food product enriched with micronutrients, plant bioactives and oilseeds which can strengthen immunity of the individual and can reduce the risk of various types of infections.
It is another object of the invention to provide an enriched food product which fulfils the nutritional requirements.
It is another object of the invention to provide an enriched food product having low moisture, long shelf life and stability.
It is another object of the invention to provide a food product that is acceptable, and relished by all age groups.
It is another object of the invention to provide a food product that is cost-effective and affordable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a food product enriched with micronutrients, plant bioactives and oilseeds.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a process for preparation of a food product enriched with micronutrients, plant bioactives and oilseeds.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The following description is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of exemplary embodiments of the invention. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary.
Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness.
The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
Features that are described and/or illustrated with respect to one embodiment may be used in the same way or in a similar way in one or more other embodiments and/or in combination with or instead of the features of the other embodiments.
It should be emphasized that the term “comprises/comprising” when used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, steps or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, components or groups thereof.
The present invention provides an enriched food product. The food product is developed with a specific combination of vitamins, minerals and oilseeds that contribute significantly to immunity along with the plant bio-actives.
Food product of the present invention, include but are not limited to biscuit, cookie, cake, bar, cracker, extruded breakfast cereals, extruded snacks, granolas, cereal bars, breads, rolls, buns, doughnuts, muffins, bagels, flatbreads, pancakes, waffles, pastries, croissants, pretzels, tortillas, taco shells, pie crusts, pizza crust, dairy products, drinks, beverages and the like cereal products.
The present inventors have developed the food product with combination of goodness from wheat flour, oil seeds along with plant bioactives and vitamins and minerals. The formulation and process has been developed in such a manner that even after addition of oil seeds which has an ability to become rancid over a period of time, vitamin and minerals that can also impart a taste to the final product along with the plant bioactives which also tend to impart a strong botanical note; however the food product is still surprisingly delightful.

Plant Bioactives:
The food product of present invention comprises the plant bioactives selected from Ashwagandha, Basil (tulsi), Amla, Turmeric, Giloy, Ginger, clove, Cardamom, Licorice, Cinnamon, Moringa or combinations thereof in a defined proportion.

Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera)
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera, fam. Solanaceae) is commonly known as “Indian Winter cherry” or “Indian Ginseng”. It improves the function of the brain and nervous system, improves the memory, improves the function of the reproductive system, enhances the body's resilience to stress, improves the body's defense against disease by improving the cell-mediated immunity and possesses potent antioxidant properties that help protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals. [Reference: Singh, Narendra, et al. "An overview on ashwagandha: a Rasayana (rejuvenator) of Ayurveda." African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines 8.5S (2011).]
The findings from a study suggest that supplementation of aqueous Ashwagandha root extract is associated with a significant reduction of stress levels in individuals and improves the overall quality of life. Hence, this herb can be used as a supplement for stress and anxiety management. [Salve, Jaysing, et al. "Adaptogenic and anxiolytic effects of ashwagandha root extract in healthy adults: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study." Cureus 11.12 (2019).]

Basil (tulsi) (Ocimum Sanctum),
Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum L.) syn O. tenuiflorum L., Mint family: Lamiaceae), commonly known as “Holy Basil”. Tulsi is of immense use in the treatment of headaches, rhinitis, stomach disorders, inflammation, heart diseases, various forms of poisoning and malaria. Each part of the plant has proven to offer protection against various diseases; the aqueous and alcoholic extract from the leaves have various pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, antiasthmatic, antiemetic, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, hypotensive, hypolipidemic, and antistress agents. [Reference: Srinivas, Naveen, KetkiSali, and Atul A. Bajoria. "Therapeutic aspects of Tulsi unraveled: A review." Journal of Indian Academy of oral medicine and radiology 28.1 (2016): 17;Jamshidi, Negar, and Marc M. Cohen. "The clinical efficacy and safety of Tulsi in humans: a systematic review of the literature." Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2017 (2017).]
A study was designed to evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of ethanolic extract of Tulsi leaves through a double-blinded randomized controlled cross-over trial on healthy volunteers. It was concluded that Tulsi extract has immunomodulatory effects in healthy volunteers without any side effects and a potential benefit for those with hypercholesterolemia. [Mondal, Shankar, et al. "Double-blinded randomized controlled trial for immunomodulatory effects of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum Linn.) leaf extract on healthy volunteers." Journal of ethnopharmacology 136.3 (2011): 452-456.]

Amla (Phyllanthus emblica)
Phyllanthus emblica Linn. (syn. Emblica officinalis), commonly known as Indian gooseberry or amla. Fruits are highly nutritious and form an important dietary source of vitamin C, amino acids, and minerals and show antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, antibacterial, antioxidant, antiulcerogenic, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, and chemopreventive properties. [Reference: Lanka, Suseela. "A review on pharmacological, medicinal and ethnobotanical important plant: Phyllanthus emblica linn.(syn. Emblica officinalis)." World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research 7.04 (2018): 380-396.]
The fruit extracts of Amla have cryoprotective and immunomodulatory properties attributed to its anti-oxidant activity. [Ram, M. Sai, et al. "Cyto-protective and immunomodulating properties of Amla (Emblica officinalis) on lymphocytes: an in-vitro study." Journal of ethnopharmacology 81.1 (2002): 5-10.]
A clinical study showed that amla intake causes significant improvement in endothelial function as well as a reduction in biomarkers of oxidative stress, increases plasma antioxidant potential and decrease oxidative stress, which can help promote oxidative homeostasis, amla has an acceptable sensory and safety profile and helps in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. [Kapoor, Mahendra Parkash, et al. "Clinical evaluation of Emblica Officinalis Gatertn (Amla) in healthy human subjects: Health benefits and safety results from a randomized, double-blind, crossover placebo-controlled study." Contemporary clinical trials communications 17 (2020): 100499.]

Turmeric (Curcuma Longa)
Turmeric is an herbaceous evergreen plant in the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, antimicrobial and antidepressant in a addition to its use in cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal and neurological disorder. [Reference: Verma, Rahul Kumar, et al. "Medicinal properties of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.): A review." Int. J. Chem. Stud 6.4 (2018): 1354-1357.]
Curcumin effectively modulates the function of T cells, B cells, dendritic cells (DCs), monocytes, macrophages (mf) and neutrophils. Overwhelming reports have supported the anti-inflammatory action of curcumin and its potential role in the therapy of numerous immune cell related diseases. [Srivastava, Raghvendra M., et al. "Immunomodulatory and therapeutic activity of curcumin." International immunopharmacology 11.3 (2011): 331-341.]
Curcumin may have a potential effect on controlling allergic diseases through inhibiting the production of cytokines affecting eosinophil function and IgE synthesis. [Kobayashi, Tatsuya, Shu Hashimoto, and Takashi Horie. "Curcumin inhibition of Dermatophagoidesfarinea-induced interleukin-5 (IL-5) and granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) production by lymphocytes from bronchial asthmatics." Biochemical pharmacology 54.7 (1997): 819-824.]

Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia)
Tinospora cordifolia common name is “Guduchi” or “Giloy”. Giloy improves or boosts immunity, contains number of antioxidants which fight free radicals, keep cells healthy and get rid of diseases. Giloy helps to remove toxins and purifies blood, fights against bacteria. [Reference: Saxena, Charu, and Geeta Rawat. "Tinospora cordifolia (Giloy)-Therapeutic uses and importance: A review." Current Research in Pharmaceutical Sciences (2019).]
Tinospora cordifolia significantly improves immunity in children and can be used as an adjuvant to vaccination. [Sharma, Devasya Narayana, and Ajitha Sharma. "Tinospora cordifolia Enhances Vyadhikshamatwa (immunity) in children." The Journal of Phytopharmacology 4.4 (2015): 227-230.] Tinospora cordifolia could be used as an adjunct to HIV/AIDS management. [Kalikar, M. V., et al. "Immunomodulatory effect of Tinospora cordifolia extract in human immuno-deficiency virus positive patients." Indian journal of pharmacology 40.3 (2008): 107.]
In an embodiment, the cereal product of present invention comprises plant bioactive selected from:
(a) Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera);
(b) Basil (Ocimum Sanctum);
(c) Amla (Phyllanthus emblica);
(d) Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) ;
(e) Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia);
(f) Ginger (Zingiber officinale);
(g) Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum);
(h) Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra);
(i) Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum);
(j) Moringa (Moringa oleifera);
(k) or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the plant bioactive is prepared from rhizome, roots, seeds, gum resin, leaves, stems, fruits or whole plants or used as is. The plant bioactive may be formulated in various forms including, but not limited to powder, paste, gel, liquid extract or granules.

Micronutrients: Vitamins and Minerals
Micronutrients play a significant role in achieving and maintaining optimal health across all life stages. Adequate nutrition is crucial to ensure a good supply of the energy sources, macronutrients and micronutrients required for the development, maintenance and expression of the immune response. Micronutrients have vital roles throughout the immune system and are needed to sustain immune-competence [Reference: Maggini, Silvia, Adeline Pierre, and Philip C. Calder. "Immune function and micronutrient requirements change over the life course." Nutrients 10.10 (2018): 1531.]Also, micronutrients play a role as immunity boosters in COVID-19[Reference: Kumar, Puneet, et al. "Role of vitamins and minerals as immunity boosters in COVID-19." Inflammopharmacology (2021): 1-16.]

Vitamin A:
Maintains vision, promotes growth and development, and protects epithelium and mucus integrity in the body. Known as an anti-inflammation vitamin because of its critical role in enhancing immune function. Important for normal functioning of innate immune cells (e.g., NK cells, macrophages, neutrophils), necessary for proper functioning of T and B lymphocytes, and thus for generation of antibody responses to antigen, involved in the development and differentiation of Th1 and Th2 cells, and supports the Th2 anti-inflammatory response. [Huang, Zhiyi, et al. "Role of vitamin A in the immune system." Journal of clinical medicine 7.9 (2018): 258. ; Maggini, Silvia, Adeline Pierre, and Philip C. Calder. "Immune function and micronutrient requirements change over the life course." Nutrients 10.10 (2018): 1531]

Vitamin E:
Fat-soluble antioxidant that can protect the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in the membrane from oxidation, regulate the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), and modulate signal transduction, boosts IL-2 production and NK cell cytotoxicity, boosts T cell-mediated activities and lymphocyte proliferation, optimises and improves Th1 response while suppressing Th2 response. [Lee, Ga Young, and Sung Nim Han. "The role of vitamin E in immunity." Nutrients 10.11 (2018): 1614; Maggini, Silvia, Adeline Pierre, and Philip C. Calder. "Immune function and micronutrient requirements change over the life course." Nutrients 10.10 (2018): 1531]

Vitamin C
An essential micronutrient, potent antioxidant and a cofactor for a family of biosynthetic and gene regulatory enzymes. Supports epithelial barrier function against pathogens and promotes the oxidant scavenging activity of the skin, thereby potentially protecting against environmental oxidative stress. Vitamin C accumulates in phagocytic cells, such as neutrophils, and can enhance chemotaxis, phagocytosis, generation of reactive oxygen species, and ultimately microbial killing. [Carr, Anitra C., and Silvia Maggini. "Vitamin C and immune function." Nutrients 9.11 (2017): 1211.]
Increases serum levels of complement proteins, stimulates the production, function, and movement of leukocytes (e.g., neutrophils, lymphocytes, and phagocytes), plays a role in antimicrobial and NK cell activities and chemotaxis, and is involved in apoptosis and macrophage clearance of spent neutrophils from infection sites. [Maggini, Silvia, Adeline Pierre, and Philip C. Calder. "Immune function and micronutrient requirements change over the life course." Nutrients 10.10 (2018): 1531

Vitamin B6
Regulates inflammation, plays a role in cytokine production and NK cell activity, is required for the endogenous synthesis and metabolism of amino acids, which are the building blocks of cytokines and antibodies, plays a role in lymphocyte proliferation, differentiation, and maturation, and contributes to antibody production. [Maggini, Silvia, Adeline Pierre, and Philip C. Calder. "Immune function and micronutrient requirements change over the life course." Nutrients 10.10 (2018): 1531
Vitamin B6 deficiency retards growth, inhibits lymphocyte proliferation, and interferes with its differentiation [Qian, Bingjun, et al. "Effects of vitamin B6 deficiency on the composition and functional potential of T cell populations." Journal of immunology research 2017 (2017).]

Vitamin B9 (folate)
Folate plays an important role in one-carbon transfer reactions, participating in DNA, RNA, and protein methylation reactions; nucleic acid synthesis; and gene expression regulation (1, 2). Folate requirements are increased during pathological conditions, such as cancer and hemolytic anemias, but also during physiological conditions, such as certain age groups, pregnancy, and lactation. [Paniz, Clovis, et al. "A daily dose of 5 mg folic acid for 90 days is associated with increased serum unmetabolized folic acid and reduced natural killer cell cytotoxicity in healthy Brazilian adults." The Journal of nutrition 147.9 (2017): 1677-1685.]
Maintains innate immunity (NK cells), has roles in cell-mediated immunity, important for sufficient antibody response to antigens, supports Th 1-mediated immune response. [Maggini, Silvia, Adeline Pierre, and Philip C. Calder. "Immune function and micronutrient requirements change over the life course." Nutrients 10.10 (2018): 1531]

Vitamin B12
Production of T lymphocytes, involved in humoral and cellular immunity and interactions with folate, plays a role in in NK cell functions, immunomodulator for cellular immunity. [Maggini, Silvia, Adeline Pierre, and Philip C. Calder. "Immune function and micronutrient requirements change over the life course." Nutrients 10.10 (2018): 1531]

Iron
Regulates cytokine production and action, kills bacteria by neutrophils by forming highly-toxic hydroxyl radicals, generates ROS that kill pathogens, significant role in the differentiation and proliferation of T lymphocytes, important for cell differentiation and growth, component of enzymes critical for functioning of immune cells (e.g., ribonucleotide reductase involved in DNA synthesis). Maggini, Silvia, Adeline Pierre, and Philip C. Calder. "Immune function and micronutrient requirements change over the life course." Nutrients 10.10 (2018): 1531
A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and its treatment with oral iron supplementation on cell-mediated immunity (CMI) and humoral immunity. It was concluded that lower CD4 lymphocyte levels and the CD4:CD8 ratio in children with ID may contribute to the decreased CMI, which can be restored by iron supplementation. [Das, Indranil, et al. "Impact of iron deficiency anemia on cell-mediated and humoral immunity in children: A case control study." Journal of natural science, biology, and medicine 5.1 (2014): 158.]

Zinc
Antioxidant effects protect against ROS and RNS, helps modulate cytokine release and induces proliferation of CD8+ T cells, helps maintain skin and mucosal membrane integrity, central role in cellular growth and differentiation of immune cells that have a rapid differentiation and turnover, essential for intracellular binding of tyrosine kinase to T cell receptors, required for T lymphocyte development and activation and supports Th1 response.
Old people aged 60–65 years and older have zinc intakes below 50% of the recommended daily allowance on a given day. Zinc supplementation may remodel the immune alterations in elderly leading to healthy ageing.[Mocchegiani, Eugenio, et al. "Zinc: dietary intake and impact of supplementation on immune function in elderly." Age 35.3 (2013): 839-860.]

Selenium
Significant for the function of selenium-dependent enzymes (selenoproteins) that can act as redox regulators and cellular antioxidants, especially counteracting ROS. Selenoproteins are important for the antioxidant host defense system affecting leukocyte and NK cell function, Dietary Selenium strongly influences inflammation and immune responses. [Hoffmann, Peter R., and Marla J. Berry. "The influence of selenium on immune responses." Molecular nutrition & food research 52.11 (2008): 1273-1280.] Among the nutrients implicated in viral infection, selenium (Se) has an important role in antioxidant defense, redox signaling and redox homeostasis [Guillin, Olivia M., et al. "Selenium, selenoproteins and viral infection." Nutrients 11.9 (2019): 2101.]
Involved in T lymphocyte proliferation and has roles in the humoral system (e.g., immunoglobulin production).

The enriched food product of present invention has a particular combination of vitamins and minerals that contributes significantly to immunity along with the plant bio-actives.
The Vitamins in the product are selected from, but not limited to vitamin A, E, C, D, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12 or combinations thereof. The Minerals are selected from Iron, Zinc, Selenium or combinations thereof.
The vitamins and minerals added in the present formulation are in form of premixes as below:
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamin A
Vitamin E
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Vitamin B1
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B3
Vitamin B5
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B9
Vitamin B12
Iron
Selenium
Zinc

Seeds:
The enriched food product of present invention may also contain incorporation of seeds. The product may involve the utilization of one or combination of pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, water melon seeds, Fenugreek seeds, Poppy seeds, Sesame seeds, Fennel seeds and Celery seeds.
The seeds may be incorporated in the recipe as whole seeds, powdered seeds, crushed seeds, toasted seeds, baked seeds or combinations thereof.

Cereals:
The major ingredient is a cereal source which may include individual source or combination of wheat, oats, maize, rice, barley, sorghum and millets. The wholegrains may be used in different forms in the cereal product - in the form of flour (fine or coarse), cracked wholegrains, cuts, flakes, crushed wholegrains, ground wholegrains, grits, popped, rolled, puffed individually or combinations thereof.

Fats:
The fat source may be an edible refined vegetable oil which is used individually or in combinations. The fat source may include Coconut oil, Cottonseed oil, Maize oil, Mustard seed oil, Palm kernel oil, Palm oil, Palm olein, Palm stearin, Rapeseed oil, Safflowerseed oil, Safflowerseed oil - high oleic acid, Sesameseed oil, Soya bean oil, Sunflowerseed oil, Sunflowerseed oil - high oleic acid or combinations thereof.

Protein
The protein sources used may include legume flour, mixed pulse flour, whey powder and derivatives, milk powder and derivatives, soya and derivatives, protein powders used individually or in combinations.

Sweeteners:
Sweeteners in the product may include but are not limited to White sugar, Plantation or mill white sugar, Powdered sugar, Soft white sugar, Soft brown sugar, Glucose syrup, Fructose, Maltodextrin, Lactose, Raw cane sugar, Jaggery. Sometimes more than one form of sugar is used in the product.

The present invention provides an enriched baked solid food product composition comprising:
a) Plant bioactives ranging from 0.05 to 5 wt.%;
b) Micronutrients ranging from 0.2 to 1 wt.%
c) Oilseeds ranging from 1 to 15 wt.%
In an embodiment, the plant bioactives are selected from Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera), Basil (Ocimum Sanctum), Amla (Phyllanthus emblica), Turmeric (Curcuma Longa), Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), clove (Syzygium aromaticum), Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), Moringa (Moringa oleifera) or combinations thereof;
In an embodiment, the micronutrients are selected from vitamins, minerals or combinations thereof.
In an embodiment, the vitamins are selected from A, E, C, D, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9 and B12 or combinations thereof.
In an embodiment, the minerals are selected from iron, zinc, and selenium or combinations thereof.
In an embodiment, the enriched product comprises oil seeds selected from pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, water melon seeds, Fenugreek seeds, Poppy seeds, Sesame seeds, Fennel seeds and Celery seeds or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, the present invention provides an enriched biscuit comprising:
a) 0.05 to 5 wt.% plant bioactives; and
b) 0.2 to 1 wt.% micronutrients; and
c) 1 to 15 wt. % oilseeds.
Wherein the plant bioactives comprises a combination of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera), Basil (Ocimum Sanctum), Amla (Phyllanthus emblica), Turmeric (Curcuma Longa), Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), clove (Syzygium aromaticum), Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), Moringa (Moringa oleifera) or combinations thereof;
Wherein the micronutrients comprises a combination of vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and selenium;
Wherein the oilseeds comprises a combination of pumpkin seeds, flax seeds and chia seeds.
Advantages of the enriched food product of the present invention are:
• Strengthens and boosts immunity of the individual and reduces risk of various types of infections.
• Fulfils the nutritional requirements.
• Low moisture, long shelf life and stability.
• Acceptable and relished by all age groups.
• Cost-effective and affordable.
An exemplary food product composition according to an embodiment of the present invention comprising:
• Cereals selected from wheat, oats, maize, rice, barley, sorghum and millets or combinations thereof.
• Edible oil selected from Coconut oil, Cottonseed oil, Maize oil, Mustard seed oil, Palm kernel oil, Palm oil, Palm olein, Palm stearin, Rapeseed oil, Safflowerseed oil, Safflowerseed oil - high oleic acid, Sesameseed oil, Soya bean oil, Sunflowerseed oil, or combinations thereof.
• Proteins sources selected from legume flour, mixed pulse flour, whey powder and derivatives, milk powder and derivatives, soya and derivatives or combinations thereof;
• Sweeteners selected from White sugar, Plantation or mill white sugar, Powdered sugar, Soft white sugar, Soft brown sugar, Glucose syrup, Fructose, Maltodextrin, Lactose, Raw cane sugar, Jaggery or combinations thereof.
• Oil Seeds selected from pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, water melon seeds, Fenugreek seeds, Poppy seeds, Sesame seeds, Fennel seeds and Celery seeds or combinations thereof.
• Plant Bioactive selected from Ashwagandha, Basil (Tulsi), Amla, Turmeric, Giloy, Ginger, Cardamom, Licorice, Cinnamon, Moringa or combinations thereof.
• Vitamins selected from A, E, C, D, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9 and B12 or combinations thereof.
• Minerals selected from Iron, Zinc, and Selenium or combinations thereof.

EXAMPLES:
The following examples are meant to illustrate the present invention. The examples are presented to exemplify the invention and are not to be considered as limiting the scope of the invention.
EXAMPLE -1:
Biscuit composition according an embodiment of the present invention
An enriched biscuit of the following composition was prepared according to an embodiment of present invention:
Ingredient Range (wt.%)
WHEAT FLOUR (ATTA) 40-65 %
OIL/FAT 10-25%
SUGAR/ SUGAR FREE 0-25 %
OIL SEEDS (PUMPKIN SEEDS, FLAX SEEDS and CHIA SEEDS) 1-15%
VITAMINS* , MINERALS** 0.2 -1%
HERBS EXTRACT
• ASHWAGANDHA,
• BASIL (TULSI),
• AMLA,
• TURMERIC
• GILOY 0.05-5%

The other conventional ingredients are as per the RDA requirements.

B] Process of preparing biscuit compositions according to the present invention
Step 1 – Mixing of Sugar, fat, emulsifiers, milk solids, water, flavours, herbs and micronutrients
Step 2- Addition of salt and leavening agents
Step 3- Addition of seeds, oats, atta
Step 4- Moulding in a rotary moulder
Step 5- Baking in oven upto 10 mins.
Step 6 – Cooling and packing

EXAMPLE -2:
Characterization of the enriched biscuits:
It was observed that by varying the % weight of the plant bioactives/vitamins-minerals below and beyond the present range; the desired biscuit characteristics were not achieved. Some of the effects observed were non-uniform finishing, uneven distribution of actives, failure of release from the molding unit, biscuit breakage, under –weight pack, undesired biscuit aesthetics.
Thereby the present composition is a synergistic composition of specific ingredients present at a particular concentration.
It is to be understood that the present invention is susceptible to modifications, changes and adaptations by those skilled in the art. Such modifications, changes, adaptations are intended to be within the scope of the present invention.
,CLAIMS:
1. An enriched baked solid food product composition comprising:
a) Plant bioactives ranging from 0.05 to 5 wt.%;
b) Micronutrients ranging from 0.2 to 1 wt.%; and
c) Oilseeds ranging from 1 to 15 wt.%;

2. The enriched baked solid food product as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plant bioactives are selected from Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera), Basil (Ocimum Sanctum), Amla (Phyllanthus emblica), Turmeric (Curcuma Longa), Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), clove (Syzygium aromaticum), Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), Moringa (Moringa oleifera) or combinations thereof.

3. The enriched baked solid food product as claimed in claim 1, wherein the micronutrients are selected from vitamins, minerals or combinations thereof.

4. The enriched baked solid food product as claimed in claim 1, wherein the oilseeds are selected from pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, water melon seeds, Fenugreek seeds, Poppy seeds, Sesame seeds, Fennel seeds, Celery seeds or combinations thereof.

5. A process for preparation of an enriched baked solid food product comprising the steps of:
(i) Mixing of Sugar, fat, emulsifiers, milk solids ,water, flavours, herbs and micronutrients to obtain an emulsion;
(ii) Addition of salt and leavening agents to emulsion of step (i) to form a salt mix;
(iii) Addition of seeds, wheat flour to the salt mix of step (ii) to form a dough;
(iv) Moulding the dough of step (iii);
(v) Baking the moulded dough of step (iv); and
(vi) Cooling and packing the baked product of step (v) to obtain the enriched baked solid food product.