Biofortification: Growing a Healthier Future

This presentation is delivered by our intern Muhammad Jibran Khan from the Phase-1 of the ongoing SBA Internship Program.

Biofortification is a natural solution, revolutionizing agriculture by fortifying crops with essential nutrients using traditional breeding along with cutting-edge biotechnological methods. Through targeted breeding and genetic modification, biofortification aims to address nutrients deficiencies and global food Security by
enhancing the nutritional value of staple foods, offering a sustainable solution to malnutrition worldwide.

Biofortification stands out for its potential to bolster public health, alleviate malnutrition, and strengthen food security. With its focus on simplicity and effectiveness, it offers a promising pathway to enhance community well-being and foster a healthier future for all.

#biofortification
#geneticengineering
#plantbreeding
#foodsecurity
#sustainableliving
#Malnutrition

1. Biofortification: Growing a Healthier Future Presented By M. Jibran Khan

2. The Problem: Hidden Hunger 2 billion people globally suffer from micronutrient deficiencies (vitamin and mineral deficiencies ). 39% of preschool children globally have Vitamin A deficiency . Figure 1

3. Biofortification: A Natural Solution Biofortification is the process of breeding crops to have higher levels of essential vitamin A and minerals (Zn and Fe) . Bio-fortified crops can deliver up to 10 times more essential vitamins and minerals compared to traditional varieties. To enhance the concentrations of vital vitamins and minerals in crops, distinguishing them from genetically modified organisms (GMOs). 1 2 Figure. 2

4. Safe Breeding Approaches Conventional Breeding Method. B reeders select plants with high vitamin A content and then cross-pollinate them to create offspring with those same traits. Figure 3

5. Biofortification Methods: Beyond Conventional Breeding Biofortification utilizes various approaches to enhance crop nutrient content. We've discussed conventional breeding methods, but let's explore two additional techniques : Figure 4

6. Agronomic Biofortification: Optimizing the Soil Agronomic biofortification focuses on improving soil health to enhance micronutrient uptake by plants. Practices include: Applying micronutrient fertilizers to address specific deficiencies in the soil. Utilizing organic matter and compost to improve soil health and nutrient retention capacity. Implementing crop rotation practices that replenish micronutrients in the soil over time. Benefits : Enhances nutrient content in crops without directly altering plant genetics (a non-GMO approach ). Often a cost-effective and readily available method for farmers. Figure 5

7. Biofortification using Genetic Engineering Genetic engineering is a developing approach that utilizes precise modifications to a plant's genes. Scientists can insert genes from other organisms or modify existing genes within the plant to: Increase the production of specific micronutrients. Enhance the bioavailability of existing nutrients within the plant. Figure 6

8. How Biofortification Works? 1 Biofortification increases micronutrients in crops through several mechanisms: Enhancing the natural production of nutrients within the plant. Improving bioavailability of existing nutrients. Selecting naturally high-nutrient crop varieties. Figure 7

9. Benefits of Biofortification 1 Biofortification can help reduce vitamin A deficiency by up to 40% in children. 2 Improved nutrition and health, especially for vulnerable populations ( pregnant women, young children ). 3 Sustainable solution for developing countries, as it doesn't require expensive technologies or rely on external resources. Figure 8

10. Latest Research Advancements in Biofortification Gene Editing for Precision: CRISPR-Cas9 creates bio-fortified crops with significantly higher nutrient content (e.g., cassava with increased vitamin A). Bioavailability Boosters: Research focuses on improving how our bodies absorb nutrients from bio-fortified crops (increasing zinc bioavailability in maize ) Multi-Nutrient Powerhouses: Scientists are developing crops enriched with multiple essential micronutrients for a more balanced profile. Consumer Preferences: Biofortification considers taste and texture (e.g., developing orange sweet potatoes with a familiar taste). Figure 9

11. Biofortification: Cultivating a Healthier Future ? Biofortification empowers communities to grow and consume nutritious food . By breeding crops richer in essential vitamins and minerals Combats malnutrition in a sustainable way. Improves health and well-being , especially for vulnerable populations. Utilizes natural approaches like breeding and soil management. Figure 10

12. Seeding a future where food nourishes all Bio-Fortification