Biofortification is an emerging technique in the field of health and nutrition, in which food crops specifically the staple ones are enhanced using various plant breeding methods, genetic modifications, etc. In India, issue of ‘hunger’ is still at high level because the food that is eaten or basically the staple crops taken by majority of the population are deprived of essential nutrients in ample amount, due to which malnutrition, hunger, weakness, and related health issues still prevail.
As it can be interpreted from above data, India is paving its way towards biofortification to curb the issue of hunger and malnutrition and ultimately developing a healthy population. How do you think biofortification as a key-player in enhancing nutritional quality nationwide?
To serve India’s hunger and malnutrition, bio fortification is a must. Along with this, India needs to give greater prominence to agricultural land and support farmers in growing more biofortified crops.
India, being the nation with the largest population, is quite deficient in the consumption of nutrients. Biofortification of food has been done right from the fortification of salt with iodine to prevent thyroid issues. This issue cannot be solved unless people start taking a balanced diet.
It can be a strong game-changer for India because it improves nutrition through everyday staple foods without changing eating habits. By naturally increasing iron, zinc, vitamin A and other micronutrients in crops, it offers a sustainable, cost-effective way to tackle hidden hunger index and malnutrition at a population level, especially in rural and low-income communities.
Biofortification in India aiming at nutrition security is greatly appreciated and at the same time the potential scalability and other barriers should be properly addressed to achieve success.
This is a really great way to complete the vital micronutrients needed for the body throughout the day. It can solve many health related issues in new generation where eating junk and bad habits are prevalent. It is now a must in agricultural sector to follow biofortification, so that we could the most of what we consume.
Biofortification can play a crucial role in reducing hidden hunger by improving the nutritional value of staple foods, especially for vulnerable populations. It offers a sustainable, long-term solution to malnutrition when implemented at scale.
