Biofortification of major crop plants with iron and zinc-achievements and future directions

Biofortification is a long-term strategy of delivering more iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) to those most in need. Plant breeding programs within the CGIAR and NARS have made major advances in Fe- and Zn-dense variety development and there have been successful releases of new biofortified varieties. Recent research effort has led to a substantial improvement in our knowledge of Fe and Zn homeostasis and gene regulation, resulting in the identification of candidate genes for marker assisted selection. International cooperation between the agricultural and nutrition community has been strengthened, with numerous implementation and partnership strategies developed and employed over the years. The evidence on the effectiveness of Fe and Zn biofortified crops is slowly building up and the results are encouraging. Biofortification continues to be scaled out and further work is required to reach the general aim of eradicating the hidden hunger of Fe and Zn deficiency in the world's population and ensuring nutritional security.

Automated summary

Biofortification is a long-term strategy to provide more iron and zinc to those in need. Plant breeding programs have made significant progress in developing varieties with higher levels of these nutrients. International cooperation and research efforts have improved our understanding of iron and zinc homeostasis and gene regulation. Evidence on the effectiveness of biofortified crops is slowly accumulating. Scaling up biofortification efforts is important for addressing iron and zinc deficiency worldwide and ensuring nutritional security.