Crop Biofortification Innovative Solutions for Micronutrient Deficiency

Abstract

Micronutrient deficiency is a significant global health issue that affects nearly half of the world's population, leading to stunted physical and mental development in children and a variety of illnesses. It is particularly prevalent among young girls, women, and pre-school children due to insufficient intake of vitamins and micronutrients. In response to this widespread challenge, biofortification has emerged as a promising and cost-effective approach to increase the essential micronutrient levels in staple crops. The quality and nutrient content of produce can be further improved using micronutrient fertilizers. Developing countries with high rates of malnutrition are increasingly interested in integrated biofortification, which combines modern agricultural practices with genetic enhancements of food crops. As a result, maize, rice, wheat, beans, pearl millet, sweet potato, and cassava have been successfully biofortified with higher levels of iron, zinc, or provitamin A in various developing nations.