Biofortification – An Approach to Eradicate Micronutrient Deficiency

The article highlights biofortification as a sustainable and cost-effective strategy to reduce micronutrient deficiencies, often referred to as “hidden hunger.” Traditional supplementation and fortification programs have limitations in cost and reach, particularly in resource-poor regions. Biofortification uses breeding, agronomic practices, and transgenic approaches to enhance the micronutrient content of staple crops such as rice, wheat, and maize. The review notes the long-term benefits of genetic approaches and the short-term advantages of agronomic inputs. It also discusses multi-nutrient biofortification, which combines micronutrients like iron, zinc, iodine, and selenium in crops for broader impact. The article positions biofortification as crucial in the context of climate change and food security, calling for a “second green revolution” focused on nutritional security.