Biofortification: A Promising Solution for Combating Micronutrient Deficiencies and Enhancing Human Health
Rahul Ojha
RVSKVV, Gwalior, India.
Supriya *
Agronomy, ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana-132001, India.
N. H. Sunitha
Department of Home Science, Agricultural Extension Education Centre, Huvinahadagali UAS, Raichur, India.
Roshni Vijayan
Plant Breeding and Genetics, RARS Pattambi, Kerela Agricultural University, India.
Divya Kumari
RPCAU, Pusa, Bihar, India.
Vinod Kumar
Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, NIPB-IARI, New Delhi, India.
Bal veer Singh
Department of Agronomy, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur 208002, Uttar Pradesh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Biofortification is a promising strategy aimed at addressing widespread micronutrient deficiencies and improving human health. Micronutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin A, iron, and zinc deficiencies, pose significant public health challenges, particularly in developing countries where access to diverse and nutritious diets is limited. Biofortification involves the breeding or genetic modification of staple food crops to increase their micronutrient content, thereby providing a sustainable and cost-effective solution to tackle these deficiencies.
Keywords: Bioavailability, malnutrition, micro-nutrients, undernutrition