A Comprehensive Review on Biofortification in Vegetable Crops
Baddigam Kasi Reddy
Division of Vegetable Crops, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (New Delhi), Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hessaraghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka– 560089, India.
Dumpapenchala Vijayreddy *
Department of Plant Pathology, Division of Crop Protection, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (New Delhi), Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hessaraghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka– 560089, India and Division of Germplasm Conservation and Utilization, ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (NBAIR), Post Bag No. 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka– 560024, India.
K Bharath Chandra
Department of Plant Physiology, Division of Basic Sciences, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (New Delhi), Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hessaraghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka– 560089, India.
Shridhar Ramesh Emmi
Division of Vegetable Crops, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (New Delhi), Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hessaraghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka– 560089, India.
Suneel Subray Hegde
Division of Post Harvest Technology and Agriculture Engineering, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (New Delhi), Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hessaraghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka– 560089, India.
Barnali Majumder
Division of Vegetable Crops, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (New Delhi), Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hessaraghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka– 560089, India.
Dara Prasanth Kumar
Department of Plant Pathology, Division of Crop Protection, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (New Delhi), Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hessaraghatta, Bengaluru, Karnataka– 560089, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Biofortification is an approach that combines biotechnology and fortification to improve the nutritional profile of staple crops, combating human malnutrition caused by essential vitamin and mineral deficiencies. It involves conventional breeding, biotechnology and agronomic strategies to increase the concentration of plant-derived nutrients and vitamins in edible parts during growth. While not as nutrient-dense as supplements or fortified foods, biofortified crops enhance daily micronutrient intake for all age groups. This sustainable, affordable approach is crucial for addressing micronutrient malnutrition, affecting around two billion people, particularly those with iron deficiency anaemia. Strategies include agronomic biofortification, involving micronutrient fertilizers and conventional breeding and hybridizing varieties for increased micronutrient levels. Genetic engineering enhances nutrient synthesis, while agronomic biofortification improves nutrient absorption and distribution. However, acceptance challenges and regulatory complexities persist. Future efforts should involve collaboration between plant breeders, molecular scientists and nutrition experts to enhance crop nutrition and receive increased funding from various organisations to combat global malnutrition effectively.
Keywords: Biofortification, genetic engineering, hidden hunger, malnutrition, vegetables