This study details GAIN and HarvestPlus’s efforts to scale up the production and commercialization of biofortified crops to combat micronutrient deficiencies. The program focused on increasing the availability of biofortified crops in six countries: Bangladesh, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Tanzania, and India.
Key findings:
Hidden hunger affects over 3 billion people worldwide, leading to stunted growth, weakened immunity, and cognitive impairment.
Biofortified crops (e.g., iron-rich beans, vitamin A cassava, and zinc wheat) are a cost-effective way to address micronutrient deficiencies.
The program linked farmers to seed processors, strengthened market linkages, and promoted consumer awareness of biofortified foods.
Challenges included low awareness, limited seed availability, and the need for supportive policies to integrate biofortified foods into national nutrition programs.
Continued investments and partnerships are needed to expand biofortified crop adoption globally.
This initiative highlights how biofortification can be integrated into food systems to enhance nutrition and food security.
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