Abstract:Objective: This study takes calcium, iron, zinc, selenium and copper as an example to explore the method of determining maximum fortification level of minerals in foods, and puts forward the recommended maximum minerals fortification level in voluntary food fortification. Methods: Based on the principles of nutrient risk assessment, a maximum fortification level assessment model was established. Combined with the risk classification of micronutrients in China, the data of China National Nutrition and Health Survey (2010-2013) was stratified by age, to calculate the maximum safe fortification level(MSFL), among them the lowest values were suggested as the final maximum safe fortification level (MSFLf). Calculate the percentage, which each nutrient’s MSFLf with its nutrient reference value (NRV), providing reference for the maximum fortification levels of minerals in foods. Results: The MSFLf /NRV of calcium, iron, zinc, selenium and copper were 74.19%, 16.88%, 4.9%, 155.79% and 37.42%, respectively. After the adjustment by age, the MSFLf /NRV of calcium, iron, zinc, selenium and copper were 74.19%, 30%, 42.15%, 155.79% and 37.42%, respectively. According to the results after adjustment, this study recommended the MSFLf for class A minerals is 30% NRV/100kcal (30% NRV/420kJ), the MSFLf for class B minerals is 40% NRV/100kcal (40% NRV/420kJ), the MSFLf for class C minerals can be set for management needs due to their low risk of over-dose. Conclusion: In combination with the results of risk assessment and micronutrients classification, the recommended maximum fortification levels of minerals in China are as follows: The MSFLf for class A and class B minerals are 30% NRV/100kcal(30% NRV/420kJ) and 40% NRV/100kcal(40% NRV/420kJ) respectively, and the MSFLf for class C minerals can be set for management needs due to their low risk of over-dose.