Question

Write a short note on biofortification.

Answer 1

Biofortification is the breeding of crops to increase their levels of vitamins, minerals, protein, and healthy fats to improve public health. It aims to reduce micronutrient malnutrition by making staple foods richer in bioavailable nutrients like iron, vitamin A, iodine, and zinc. It is cost-effective, sustainable, and targets populations with food lacking essential nutrients. Examples of biofortified crops include iron-rich beans, vitamin A-rich cassava and maize, and zinc-rich rice and wheat.