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Spent coffee grounds (SCGs) are a food waste with a large generation around the world. However, their utilization as a soil organic amendment is difficult due to their phytotoxic effect. In the present work, the impact of agronomic biofortification on Dutch cucumbers was studied by using different chemically modified SCGs, analyzing their effects on Zn content, the release of antioxidant capacity and the production of short-chain fatty acids after in vitro digestion–fermentation. The results indicated variations in the Zn content and chemical composition of cucumbers according to the treatment groups. The functionalized with Zn and activated SCGs were able to increase Zn levels in cucumbers. Meanwhile, the activated hydrochar obtained at 160 °C and the activated and functionalized with Zn SCGs showed the highest Zn supply per serving. Differences in the antioxidant capacity and short-chain fatty acid production were observed between the groups. It is concluded that the growing conditions and the presence of Zn may significantly influence the contribution of these cucumbers to the dietary intake of nutrients and antioxidants, which could have important implications for human health and nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Agrobacterium sp. T3F4 oxidized Se(-II)/Se(0) into Se(IV) and As(III) into As(V). • Strain T3F4 increased Se bioavailability and immobilized As in seleniferous As-polluted soil. • Strain T3F4 promoted Se uptake and decreased As accumulation in Brassica rapa L. • Se(IV) alleviated As(V) toxicity via competitive uptake by B. rapa. Toxic arsenic (As) and trace element selenium (Se) are transformed by microorganisms but their complex interactions in soil-plant systems have not been fully understood. An As- and Se- oxidizing bacterium, Agrobacterium sp. T3F4, was applied to a native seleniferous As-polluted soil to investigate As/Se uptake by the vegetable Brassica rapa L. and As-Se interaction as mediated by strain T3F4. The Se content in the aboveground plants was significantly enhanced by 34.1%, but the As content was significantly decreased by 20.5% in the T3F4-inoculated pot culture compared to the control (P < 0.05). Similar result was shown in treatment with additional 5 mg/kg of Se(IV) in soil. In addition, the As contents in roots were significantly decreased by more than 35% under T3F4 or Se(IV) treatments (P<0.05). Analysis of As-Se-bacterium interaction in a soil simulation experiment showed that the bioavailability of Se significantly increased and As was immobilized with the addition of the T3F4 strain (P < 0.05). Furthermore, an As/Se co-exposure hydroponic experiment demonstrated that As uptake and accumulation in plants was reduced by increasing Se(IV) concentrations. The 50% growth inhibition concentration (IC50) values for As in plants were increased about one-fold and two-fold under co-exposure with 5 and 10 µmol/L Se(IV), respectively. In conclusion, strain T3F4 improves Se uptake but decreases As uptake by plants via oxidation of As and Se, resulting in decrease of soil As bioavailability and As/Se competitive absorption by plants. This provides a potential bioremediation strategy for Se biofortification and As immobilization in As-polluted soil. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofortification of plant food products including microgreens is one of the most promising approaches to combat with the problem of balanced nutrition for the human population. This study introduces the microbiological biofortification using plant growth-promoting (PGP) bacteria, specifically three strains of zincsolubilizing Pseudomonas sp. (STF10, STF14, STF16) isolated from the rhizosphere of Tussilago farfara L. The research explores their impact on growth parameters and photosynthetic pigments in pea (Pisum sativum L.) microgreens following iodine spraying, providing groundbreaking insights. The experimental results indicate that inoculation of pea seeds with these rhizobacteria significantly increased the fresh and dry biomass of 14-day-old microgreens (by 22 and 15%, respectively, on average) compared to non-inoculated plants. At the same time the content of chlorophylls and carotenoids in seedlings increased on average by 18 and 36%, respectively. Spraying with one form of iodine (0.01% KI or KIO3) slightly increased fresh and dry biomass (by 8% on average) and did not alter the content of photosynthetic pigments. Wherein iodine content in pea microgreens increased by 4.4 and 3.8 times, after KI and KIO3 spraying, respectively. By conducting experiments in a hydroponic nutrient solution, this study provides a robust platform for evaluating the biofortification potential of the three Pseudomonas strains along with foliar iodine feeding, marking a significant stride towards enhancing the nutritional profile of pea microgreens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fourteen pole-type hyacinth bean genotypes were analyzed for trace elements (Zn, Fe, Mn, and Cu). • Green pod yield was a function of pod weight and width. • 16/DOLP VAR 4 registered highest yield and uptake of Zn, Fe, and Cu. • There was an absence of yield dilution on concentrations of trace elements. • BCDB 5 was screened as most potential genotype for agronomic biofortification while 16/DOLP VAR 4 for genetic biofortification. Trace element malnutrition is a global malaise and remains a concern for humanity. Hyacinth bean (Lablab purpureus L.), an underutilized legume vegetable, could be a suitable option to alleviate such malaise owing to its high content of trace elements. Our study aimed to evaluate phenotypic segregation of some pole-type hyacinth bean genotypes and their logical screening for specific biofortification programs (genetic or agronomic). We observed significantly (P <0.05) higher pod yields in 16/DOLP VAR 4 (344.19 q ha−1), 17/DOLP VAR 1 (283.47 q ha−1), 16/DOLP VAR 2 (280.19 q ha−1), and 16/DOLP VAR 1 (260.22 q ha−1) compared to others. Experimental results also revealed that yield was a function of pod weight and width. Although concentration of trace elements varied significantly (P <0.05) between the genotypes, 16/DOLP VAR 4 showed significantly (P <0.05) greater uptake of Zn (822.12 g ha−1), Fe (2240.28 g ha−1), and Cu (268.42 g ha−1). The relation between the trace elements was antagonistic in most genotypes for Mn and Cu (r = –0.34; P >0.05) followed by Zn and Fe (r = –0.25; P >0.05). Quadrant segregation, based on the relation between yield and uptake of trace elements, identified genotype BCDB 5 (low yield with less uptake potential) as suitable for agronomic biofortification (Zn and Fe) while 16/DOLP VAR 4 (high yield with greater uptake potential) for genetic biofortification (Zn, Fe, Mn, and Cu) program. Since agronomic biofortification offers a scope for additional enrichment of trace elements concentration (particularly Zn and Fe), we conclude that it may be necessitated as an immediate effort to promote the underutilized hyacinth bean in populations with the potential for higher consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The awareness of the importance of following dietary recommendations that meet specific biological requirements related to an individual's health status has significantly increased interest in personalized nutrition. The aim of this research was to test agronomic protocols based on soilless cultivation for providing consumers with new dietary sources of iodine (I), as well as alternative vegetable products to limit dietary potassium (K) intake; proposed cultivation techniques were evaluated according to their suitability to obtain such products without compromising agronomic performance. RESULTS: Two independent experiments, focused on I and K respectively, were conducted in a commercial greenhouse specializing in soilless production. Four different species were cultivated using three distinct concentrations of I (0, 1.5 and 3 mg L−1) and K (0, 60 and 120 mg L−1). Microgreens grown in I‐rich nutrient solution accumulate more I, and the increase is dose‐dependent. Compared to unbiofortified microgreens, the treatments with 1.5 and 3 mg L−1 of I resulted in 4.5 and 14 times higher I levels, respectively. Swiss chard has the highest levels of K (14 096 mg kg−1 of FW), followed by rocket, pea and radish. In radish, rocket and Swiss chard, a total reduction of K content in the nutrient solution (0 mg L−1) resulted in an average reduction of 45% in K content. CONCLUSION: It is possible to produce I‐biofortified microgreens to address I deficiency, and K‐reduced microgreens for chronic kidney disease‐affected people. Species selection is crucial to customize nutritional profiles according to specific dietary requirements due to substantial mineral content variations across different species. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malnutrition, a significant global health concern, necessitates innovative solutions to enhance food nutritional profiles sustainably. This study focused on augmenting the nutrient content of traditional cereal flours, specifically corn (Ma) and millet (Mi), by incorporating edible insects, Macrotermes subhyalinus (MS) and Cirina butyrospermi (CB) known for their high protein, vitamin and mineral levels. The research aimed to create fortified flour formulations by adding these insects at various proportions (20%, 22.5% and 25%), thus addressing nutritional deficiencies common in staple diets. The study employed a comprehensive methodological approach incorporating biochemical analyses to measure protein, lipid content, pH and vitamin C levels in 16 distinct flour blends. These measures provided a basis for evaluating the nutritional enhancement achieved through insect incorporation. Additionally, nutrient density calculations and statistical analyses including analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post-hoc tests were conducted to assess the overall nutritional value and identify significant differences among formulations. Results demonstrated a marked improvement in the nutritional quality of cereal flours with insect addition. Formulations MiMS25 (75% Millet + 25% MS) and MiCB25 (75% Millet + 25% CB) exhibited the highest mineral content, with ash values of 3.69 ± 1.00% and 2.60 ± 0.28%, respectively. Protein levels were significantly increased in MaCB22.5 (77.5% Corn + 22.5% CB) and MiCB25 showing concentrations of 18.78 ± 0.20% and 18.66 ± 0.10%. Furthermore, the inclusion of MS notably enhanced lipid content, particularly in MiMS25 which displayed an energy value of 451.19 kcal. Among the tested blends, MaCB22.5 was identified as the most nutritionally promising with a nutrient density score of 0.255 indicating a balanced and improved nutritional profile. This study underscores the potential of integrating edible insects into cereal flours as a sustainable strategy to combat malnutrition. It highlights the need for further research into optimizing these formulations for consumer acceptance, taste, and shelf-life aiming to incorporate them into mainstream diets to achieve global nutritional well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize breeding appears to be a key strategy to ensure global food security. Improving the grain yield and nutritional quality of maize can progress through breeding programs, where hybridization between two genetically contrasting inbreds might lead to producing superior hybrids. This phenomenon occurs as the developed hybrids are 100% heterozygous, and in consequence, expressing heterosis. However, to select parents for the ideal combinations, it is fundamental to understand the genetic status and the ability to combine the different inbreds. This review aimed to highlight the effectiveness of the general combining ability (GCA) and the specific combining ability (SCA) approaches to develop high-yielding and nutritionally enriched maize hybrids adapted to Malaysia's conditions. Maize breeders have applied various breeding methods, including the biofortification technique to augment the grain yield and nutritional quality of the crop. This technique is the most sustainable, feasible, and affordable one, as it offers more nutritious plants with the required micronutrients. Although a considerable amount of research has succeeded in identifying potential inbred combinations for specific traits and sites, the application of combining ability methods toward developing high-yielding and nutritionally enriched maize hybrids adapted to Malaysia's conditions has not been maximized. Therefore, it is important to understand the combining ability approaches to develop maize hybrids that could lead to the maximum output for combating the increasing maize global demand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Projected increases in human population suggest that 70% more food will be needed in the near future, this makes it imperative to search for alternative food and feed sources for human and animal nutrition to feed the exponentially growing human population. According to the FAO 2019 report, the immense challenge of achieving the Zero Hunger target by 2030 is persistent. Exploring the unexplored, refining unrefined traits, cultivating the uncultivated, and popularizing the unpopular remain the most adequate steps proposed by researchers to achieve the domestication of the undomesticated for food and nutrition security. In that line of thought, this study explored the proximate composition of 87 accessions of four wild unexplored Vigna species (V. racemosa , V. ambacensis , V. reticulata , V. vexillata) in order to reveal information leading to their future domestication and utilization. Standard procedures and methods approved by the Association of Official Analytical Chemists were used in carrying out the proximate composition (%protein, %lipid, %fibre, %ash and % moisture and % carbohydrate) of the wild Vigna legumes. The study revealed that the wild Vigna species possess a large variation range of nutrient characteristics which could be exploited in the improvement of domesticated species or guide their domestication. It was also found that some individual wild accessions have higher nutrient, content as compared with domesticated ones which could be advantageous for bio-fortification or domestication. Indications relating to the candidate accessions favourable for domestication, based on the nutrient characteristics were revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malnutrition, often termed "hidden hunger," represents a pervasive global issue carrying significant implications for health, development, and socioeconomic conditions. Addressing the challenge of inadequate essential nutrients, despite sufficient caloric intake, is crucial. Biofortification emerges as a promising solution by enhance the presence of vital nutrients like iron, zinc, iodine, and vitamin A in edible parts of different crop plants. Crop biofortification can be attained through either agronomic methods or genetic breeding techniques. Agronomic strategies for biofortification encompass the application of mineral fertilizers through foliar or soil methods, as well as leveraging microbe-mediated mechanisms to enhance nutrient uptake. On the other hand, genetic biofortification involves the strategic crossing of plants to achieve a desired combination of genes, promoting balanced nutrient uptake and bioavailability. Additionally, genetic biofortification encompasses innovative methods such as speed breeding, transgenic approaches, genome editing techniques, and integrated omics approaches. These diverse strategies collectively contribute to enhancing the nutritional profile of crops. This review highlights the above-said genetic biofortification strategies and it also covers the aspect of reduction in antinutritional components in food through genetic biofortification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): Selenium Nanoparticles can modulate the function of the immune system and improve immunity. We investigate the expression of toll-like receptor-7 (TLR-7), myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88), Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and TNF receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF6) genes in thymus of Wistar rats following treatment with cyclosporine A (CsA) and Nano-selenium (Nano-Se) supplementation. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four male Wistar rats (200-220 grams) were divided into 3 groups of control (n=8), CsA (n=8), and CsA+Nano-Se (n=8). Rats in CsA and CsA+Nano-Se group's received cyclosporine A and olive oil solution by subcutaneous injection for 10 days at a dose of 5 mg/kg/day. Nano-Se with a dose of 2.5 mg/kg of body weight was gavaged to the CsA+Nano-Se group once a day and 3 times a week. Real-time PCR were used for gene expression of TLR-7, MyD88, NF-kB, and TRAF6 at thymus. Results: The result of this study show that CsA significantly decreased expressions of TLR-7, MyD88, NF-kB, and TRAF6 at thymus compared to control group (P<0.05). However, expressions of TLR-7, MyD88, NF-kB, and TRAF6 at thymus in CsA+ Nano-Se group was significantly increased compared to CsA group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Nano-Se supplementation significantly regulated the expression of TLR-7, MyD88, NF-kB and TRAF6 genes in the thymus of rats treated with cyclosporine A. Therefore, Nano-Se supplementation can be recommended to boost immune function after using immunosuppressive drugs. However, more research is needed in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the findings of a study on the impact of biofortification on the growth, yield, and quality of brinjal (eggplant) in coastal soil. The study tested different treatments involving the application of fortified organic manures and micronutrients to the soil and through foliar sprays. The results showed that the combined application of recommended fertilizer and fortified vermicompost, along with foliar sprays of zinc and iron, resulted in the highest growth, yield, and quality parameters of brinjal. The study suggests that these treatments can improve the productivity of brinjal in nutrient-poor soils and combat hidden hunger. [Extracted from the article]

Sericulture significantly contributes to the Indian economy. Mulberry leaf production is the vital phenomena in sericulture. Quantitative and qualitative mulberry leaf production is necessary for attaining maximum good quality cocoons. However, farmers are utilizing conventional fertilizers without judicious manner, due to which leaching losses makes soil hazardous and the nutrients might not be sufficiently reach the plant parts. Proper nutrient management in a judicial manner is done through foliar application of nutrients, hence nanotechnology a boon to agriculture in producing nano-fertilizers to make environmental friendly and effective utilization of available nutrients. This technology reduces the cost of cultivation, increases growth and yields of mulberry and improves the quality of mulberry leaves, thereby enhances the larval, cocoon and reeling parameters of silkworm, Bombyx mori L. This review summarizes the current research and the future possibilities of nanotechnology in the biofortification of plant nutrition, with a focus on nanofertilizers. It also discusses the difficulties, detrimental effects on the environment and harmful repercussions of nanotechnology research done to increase crop yields. Additionally, the possible applications and advantages of fertilizers based on nanoparticles in sustainable and precision farming are covered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Selenium is an essential trace element that exists in inorganic forms (selenite and selenates) and organic forms (selenoamino acids, seleno peptides, and selenoproteins). Selenium is known to aid in the function of the immune system for populations where human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is endemic, as studies suggest that a lack of selenium is associated with a higher risk of mortality among those with HIV. In a recent study conducted in Zambia, adults had a median plasma selenium concentration of 0.27 μmol/L (IQR 0.14–0.43). Concentrations consistent with deficiency (<0.63 μmol/L) were found in 83% of adults. With these results, it can be clearly seen that selenium levels in Southern Africa should be investigated to ensure the good health of both livestock and humans. The recommended selenium dietary requirement of most domesticated livestock is 0.3 mg Se/kg, and in humans above 19 years, anRDA (recommended daily allowance) of 55 mcg Se/per dayisis recommended, but most of the research findings of Southern African countries have recorded low levels. With research findings showing alarming low levels of selenium in soils, humans, and raw feed materials in Southern Africa, further research will be vital in answering questions on how best to improve the selenium status of Southern African soils and plants for livestock and humans to attain sufficient quantities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental - Agriambi is the property of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Micronutrient deficiencies are pervasive in the diets of millions of people in developing countries, calling for effective mitigation measures. The development of biofortified cultivars through breeding holds promise for sustainable and affordable solutions to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Breeding efforts in the past decade have resulted in dozens of biofortified open-pollinated varieties and hybrids adapted to diverse agroecological zones. Advances in genomics and molecular tools enabled rapid identification of maize cultivars enriched with essential micronutrients such as pro vitamin A (PVA), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn). Leveraging Multi-omics-driven discovery of the genetic factors underlying the vast array of nutritional traits is paramount to mainstreaming breeding for quality traits in the product profile. Molecular breeding schemes, and integrating emerging Omics tools at every stage of the breeding pipeline, are vital to enhancing genetic gain. The recent momentum in elucidating the metabolism of micronutrients should be expanded to novel breeding targets as well as to the simultaneous enhancement of nutritional qualities while curtailing anti-nutritional factors in staple food crops. Harnessing new technologies to establish comprehensive and integrated breeding approaches involving nutrigenomics, genome editing, and agronomic biofortification is crucial in tackling nutritional insecurity. This review highlights the prospect of integrating modern tools in hastening the genetic improvement of nutritionally enriched maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Zinc (Zn) deficiency in humans is of worldwide concern. The objective of this study was to investigate the Zn intake gap in Chinese adults and identify the potential role of biofortification technologies for wheat and rice, including crop nutrient management and breeding, in filling the gap. RESULTS: We use data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey in 2011 to identify food consumption patterns and dietary Zn intake of 4512 adults to define and quantify the Zn intake gap in the population. The dietary Zn intake gap of surveyed adults ranged from -0.8 to 6.53 mg day-1 across nine provinces and differences were associated with differences in food consumption patterns. Both dietary Zn intake and Zn gap for males were higher than for females. The potential of changes in five management strategies (improved nitrogen fertilization, improved phosphorus fertilization, foliar Zn fertilization, improved watermanagement and growing varieties reaching the grain Zn breeding target) was analyzed. Breeding and foliar Zn fertilization were shown to be the two most effective management strategies that could increase dietary intake by 1.29 to 5 mg Zn day-1 dependent on sex and province. CONCLUSION: This study shows that the Zn gap varied across regions in China, with some large enough to warrant interventions. Wheat and rice as two major Zn sources could be targeted without a direct need for dietary diversification. By promoting both biofortification breeding of wheat and rice and Zn fertilization, dietary Zn intake could be enhanced to contribute to human health improvement in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Riboflavin is the precursor of several cofactors essential for normal physical and cognitive development, but only plants and some microorganisms can produce it. Humans thus rely on their dietary intake, which at a global level is mainly constituted by cereals (> 50%). Understanding the riboflavin biosynthesis players is key for advancing our knowledge on this essential pathway and can hold promise for biofortification strategies in major crop species. In some bacteria and in Arabidopsis, it is known that RibA1 is a bifunctional protein with distinct GTP cyclohydrolase II (GTPCHII) and 3,4-dihydroxy-2-butanone-4-phosphate synthase (DHBPS) domains. Arabidopsis harbors three RibA isoforms, but only one retained its bifunctionality. In rice, however, the identification and characterization of RibA has not yet been described. Results: Through mathematical kinetic modeling, we identified RibA as the rate-limiting step of riboflavin pathway and by bioinformatic analysis we confirmed that rice RibA proteins carry both domains, DHBPS and GTPCHII. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that OsRibA isoforms 1 and 2 are similar to Arabidopsis bifunctional RibA1. Heterologous expression of OsRibA1 completely restored the growth of the rib3∆ yeast mutant, lacking DHBPS expression, while causing a 60% growth improvement of the rib1∆ mutant, lacking GTPCHII activity. Regarding OsRibA2, its heterologous expression fully complemented GTPCHII activity, and improved rib3∆ growth by 30%. In vitro activity assays confirmed that both OsRibA1 and OsRibA2 proteins carry GTPCHII/DHBPS activities, but that OsRibA1 has higher DHBPS activity. The overexpression of OsRibA1 in rice callus resulted in a 28% increase in riboflavin content. Conclusions: Our study elucidates the critical role of RibA in rice riboflavin biosynthesis pathway, establishing it as the rate-limiting step in the pathway. By identifying and characterizing OsRibA1 and OsRibA2, showcasing their GTPCHII and DHBPS activities, we have advanced the understanding of riboflavin biosynthesis in this staple crop. We further demonstrated that OsRibA1 overexpression in rice callus increases its riboflavin content, providing supporting information for bioengineering efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofortification is the supply of micronutrients required for humans and livestock by various methods in the field, which include both farming and breeding methods and are referred to as short-term and long-term solutions, respectively. The presence of essential and non-essential elements in the atmosphere, soil, and water in large quantities can cause serious problems for living organisms. Knowledge about plant interactions with toxic metals such as cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni), and lead (Pb), is not only important for a healthy environment, but also for reducing the risks of metals entering the food chain. Biofortification of zinc (Zn) and selenium (Se) is very significant in reducing the effects of toxic metals, especially on major food chain products such as wheat and rice. The findings show that Zn-biofortification by transgenic technique has reduced the accumulation of Cd in shoots and grains of rice, and also increased Se levels lead to the formation of insoluble complexes with Hg and Cd. We have highlighted the role of Se and Zn in the reaction to toxic metals and the importance of modifying their levels in improving dietary micronutrients. In addition, cultivar selection is an essential step that should be considered not only to maintain but also to improve the efficiency of Zn and Se use, which should be considered more climate, soil type, organic matter content, and inherent soil fertility. Also, in this review, the role of medicinal plants in the accumulation of heavy metals has been mentioned, and these plants can be considered in line with programs to improve biological enrichment, on the other hand, metallothioneins genes can be used in the program biofortification as grantors of resistance to heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentration of mineral nutrients in plants is associated with bioavailabilities of soil mineral nutrients, which are regulated by various soil physio-chemical properties. A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of soil type on grain and straw zinc (Zn), iron (Fe) and selenium (Se) concentrations of wheat/Amblyopyrum muticum and wheat/Triticum urartu doubled haploid lines. A set of 42 treatments in a factorial combinationwith 21 genotypes and two soil types collected fromNgabu and Chitedze Research Stations in Malawi was laid in a randomisedcompleteblockdesign (RCBD) in three replicates. Pre-experiment soil Zn and Fe were extracted using DTPA extraction method followed by analysis with inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Aqua-regia hotplate acid digestion was used to extract soil Se and analysis was done using ICPM-MS. Grain and straw samples were digested using nitric acid digestion (HNO3) and analysed using ICP-MS. Soil analysis results showed that the two soils had the same textural class (Sandy clay loam), but different mineral concentrations, pH levels and percentage organic matter. Analysis of variance revealed a ~two-fold higher Zn concentration in grains grown in low pH, high Zn soils (Chitedze soils) compared to grains grown in high pH, low Zn soils (Ngabu soils). Variation in grain Zn concentrationwas associated with the genotypes (p = 0002), soil type (p = <0.0001), and their interaction (p = 0.035). Grain Fe was 1.3-fold higher in low pH than in high pH soils, and itwas influenced by genotypes (p = < 0.0001) and soil type (p = <0.0001). Grain Se was highly associated with soil type (p = <0.0001), and it was 30-fold higher in high pH than in low pH soils. Straw Zn was generally higher in plants grown in Chitedze soils than Ngabu soils, whilst strawSewas higher in plants grown in Ngabu soils than Chitedze soils. The findings demonstrate the significance of soil physio-chemical properties for mineral accumulation and distribution to plant parts, thus informing future breeding programs on important considerations on crop genetic biofortification with the three mineral elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Folate is a collective term for tetrahydrofolate (THF) and its derivatives substituted with one carbon unit, playing a crucial role in plant growth and human health. The human body cannot synthesize folate itself, so it must be obtained from the diet. Improving folate content in plants through biofortification is an effective method to address the global folate deficiency problem. This review introduced the structure, functions, the biosynthesis pathways, and the extraction and detection methods of folate. Moreover, it focused on the current status of folate biofortification in different crops, and prospected for global folate biofortfication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interaction between phosphorus (P), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) alters plant nutrient concentrations and nutritional quality. In this regard, there are a limited number of studies on P and micronutrient relations in lettuce plants. In this study, the effects of Zn and Fe applications on plant growth, concentrations, and contents of P, Zn, Fe, copper (Cu), and manganese (Mn) were determined in lettuce plants grown under increasing P rates. Lettuce plants grown under increasing P rates (0, 100, 200, and 400 mg kg−1 P) were treated with either sole or combined applications of 20 mg kg−1 Zn and 30 mg kg−1 Fe. Fresh and dry weights, P concentrations, and contents of lettuce were increased by P fertilization. With Zn and Fe applications, lettuce Fe contents were increased by medium P rates. Plant Zn contents were increased by P fertilization when the plant supplied Zn alone. Besides the highest P rate, Zn and Fe increased plant Zn content through P fertilization. Under no micronutrient condition, Cu concentration revealed insignificant changes, but its content was significantly increased by P application. Plant Mn concentration only increased by low P when the plant supplied Zn however Mn contents of lettuce were increased by P fertilization. In conclusion, even high P doses had no significant impact on Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mn concentrations in lettuce plants. Plant Zn concentrations increased when Zn was applied with Fe. Likewise, Cu increased but manganese declined. This emphasizes the importance of simultaneous Zn and Fe fertilizer application, especially in Zn biofortification research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homogentisate Phytyltransferase (HPT) catalyzes condensation of homogentisate (HGA) and phytyl diphosphate (PDP) to produce tocopherols, but can also synthesize tocotrienols using geranylgeranyl diphosphate (GGDP) in plants engineered for deregulated HGA synthesis. In contrast to prior tocotrienol biofortification efforts, engineering enhanced tocopherol concentrations in green oilseeds has proven more challenging due to the integral role of chlorophyll metabolism in supplying the PDP substrate. This study show that RNAi suppression of CHLSYN coupled with HPT overexpression increases tocopherol concentrations by >two-fold in Arabidopsis seeds. We obtained additional increases in seed tocopherol concentrations by engineering increased HGA production via overexpression of bacterial TyrA that encodes chorismate mutase/prephenate dehydrogenase activities. In overexpression lines, seed tocopherol concentrations increased nearly three-fold, and resulted in modest tocotrienol accumulation. We further increased total tocochromanol concentrations by enhancing production of HGA and GGDP by overexpression of the gene for hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD). This shifted metabolism towards increased amounts of tocotrienols relative to tocopherols, which was reflected in corresponding increases in ratios of GGDP/PDP in these seeds. Overall, our results provide a theoretical basis for genetic improvement of total tocopherol concentrations in green oilseeds (e.g., rapeseed, soybean) through strategies that include seed-suppression of CHLSYN coupled with increased HGA production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sakuranetin plays a key role as a phytoalexin in plant resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, and possesses diverse health-promoting benefits. However, mature rice seeds do not contain detectable levels of sakuranetin. In the present study, a transgenic rice plant was developed in which the promoter of an endosperm-specific glutelin gene OsGluD-1 drives the expression of a specific enzyme naringenin 7-O-methyltransferase (NOMT) for sakuranetin biosynthesis. The presence of naringenin, which serves as the biosynthetic precursor of sakuranetin made this modification feasible in theory. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) validated that the seeds of transgenic rice accumulated remarkable sakuranetin at the mature stage, and higher at the filling stage. In addition, the panicle blast resistance of transgenic rice was significantly higher than that of the wild type. Specially, the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) imaging was performed to detect the content and spatial distribution of sakuranetin and other nutritional metabolites in transgenic rice seeds. Notably, this genetic modification also did not change the nutritional and quality indicators such as soluble sugars, total amino acids, total flavonoids, amylose, total protein, and free amino acid content in rice. Meanwhile, the phenotypes of the transgenic plant during the whole growth and developmental periods and agricultural traits such as grain width, grain length, and 1000-grain weight exhibited no significant differences from the wild type. Collectively, the study provides a conceptual advance on cultivating sakuranetin-rich biofortified rice by metabolic engineering. This new breeding idea may not only enhance the disease resistance of cereal crop seeds but also improve the nutritional value of grains for human health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing biofortified maize varieties with increased bioavailability of nutrients is crucial for addressing global food challenges and meeting the diverse needs of growing population. Hence, to formulate need based breeding programme, a comprehensive multidimensional approach was employed to assess the variability among 49 inbreds. PCA analysis revealed that single plant yield along with hundred kernel weight, number of kernels per row, number of kernel rows, cob length, ear height, cob diameter and leaf length contributed maximum towards variability. However, phytic acid displayed a relatively lower contribution to the overall variability. Based on cluster analysis, inbreds in the cluster III were found to have maximum mean performance for yield and its associated traits. Cluster V showed maximum mean performance for Pi. Based on the results, the genotype lpa 2 - UMI 395 from cluster V was selected as donor for hybridisation. From UMI 1201 x lpa 2-UMI 395 and UMI 1230 x lpa 2-UMI 395 crosses, a total of 11 and 10 F2:3 plants were identified respectively as homozygous for lpa 2 using molecular markers. The selected plants with lpa 2 allele were found to have Pi in the range of 1.1 and 1.4 mg/g. Inheritance pattern of phytic acid based on these observations confirmed the recessive nature of the trait. Hence, these selected plants with lpa 2 allele can be selected for yield and its associated traits in further generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microorganisms play a fundamental role in sustainable agriculture, and their importance in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) cultivation cannot be underestimated. This review article aims to comprehensively explore the diverse roles of microorganisms in sustainable biofortified common bean cultivation. Biofortification refers to the process of increasing the nutrient content in crops, which helps combat deficiencies in iron, zinc, and vitamins in the human body. Biofortified beans have better agronomic characteristics and offer higher micronutrient content compared to conventional crops. We examine the contribution of various microbial communities in nitrogen fixation, soil structure improvement, nutrient recycling, and disease suppression. Understanding the interaction between beneficial microorganisms and biofortified common bean plants enables us to develop ecologically sound and sustainable approaches to optimize crop productivity and improve nutrition and livelihoods for millions of people worldwide while reducing the environmental impact of agricultural practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selenium is beneficial to plants and is essential for animals and humans, which justifies any efforts for producing Se-enriched wheat grains worldwide. This study aimed to (i) verify if wheat is an efficient species to be used for Se biofortification in tropical agroecosystems and (ii) assess the influence of Se on the physiological and biochemical parameters of wheat plants. Selenium was applied as sodium selenate (Na2SeO4) at different doses (12, 21, 38, 68, and 120 g ha−1) in soil. The dose of 120 g ha−1 of Se resulted in Se contents of 7.98 and 2.27 mg kg−1 in the leaves and grains, respectively. The supply of 38 g ha−1 of Se increased the total soluble sugar content by 50%, with reducing sugars increasing by 17% and sucrose augmenting 53%, compared with that in the control. The doses of 12, 68, and 120 g of Se ha−1 promoted a significant increase in catalase activity. In addition, Se application increased carbohydrate and nutrient contents. Our findings indicate that wheat is a good species for agronomic biofortification with Se via soil application in tropical agroecosystems. Selenium proved to be a valuable element for plants since it provides physiological and biochemical benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofortified crops offer a promising solutions to combat micronutrient deficiencies, particularly in developing nations. This study undertakes a systematic review of farmer-level acceptance and adoption of biofortified crops, including the key determinants, methodologies, indicators and measures, and findings related to acceptance and adoption of biofortified crops among farmers. The review identified 24 biofortification studies with farmers conducted across Africa and Asia, primarily in countries such as Nigeria, Uganda, and Tanzania. These studies focus on biofortified crops like rice, banana, cassava, and sweet potato. Notably, a majority of the reviewed studies followed a quantitative approach and employed a cross-sectional design. The key outcome indicators encompassed farmers' willingness-to-pay, perceptions, beliefs, willingness-to-plant in the next growing season, and the actual adoption itself. These indicators were typically measured using a 5-point Likert scale or a dummy variable. The primary determinants driving farmers to cultivate biofortified crops were classified into four categories: socioeconomic, institutional, agronomic, and psychological and cognitive factors. Given the complex nature of challenges like hidden hunger, an all-encompassing approach is imperative in seeking effective solutions. Understanding the intricate interplay between these factors, which shape the acceptance and adoption of biofortified crops, becomes pivotal in formulating strategies that effectively address this multifaceted issue. To address challenges like hidden hunger, comprehensive solutions are essential. Understanding the factors shaping the adoption of biofortified crops is crucial for effective strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Selenium (Se)-biofortified foods are able to compensate for Se deficient diets, but the proportion of different Se species varies among plant species, and the bioavailability of Se species also varies. This study aims to examine the Se species composition of four vegetables. Methods: The effect of Se-enriched irrigation water on the concentrations of Se species in the edible parts of cabbage, carrots, tomatoes and green peas grown on different soil types was investigated and quantified using HPLC-ICP-MS with either standard addition or isotope dilution. Results: Cabbage leaf and carrot root contained a high proportion (88 and 92%, respectively) of selenate (SeVI), while in tomato fruit and green pea seed selenomethionine (SeMet) was found in the highest proportion (33% and 48%, respectively), but elemental Se was also detected. The elemental Se concentration of peas was significantly higher on sandy soil (2.29 mg kg−1) than on sandy silt (1.38 mg kg−1) or silt soil (1.34 mg kg−1). In 100 g of fresh edible parts, the largest amount of Se species was found in cabbage leaves, but organic Se in the form of SeMet was the most abundant in green peas, being significantly higher than in carrots or tomatoes. Tomatoes contained a nearly three-fold ratio of organic Se to inorganic Se, the latter being mostly comprised of the elemental form, which is unusually high in vegetables. The highest rate of unknown Se species exceeded 66% in the case of peas, while the highest identification rate (> 95%) of Se could be achieved in tomato. Conclusion: Tomatoes converted the absorbed Se into organic Se in the highest ratio, while green peas had the highest amount of organic Se in fresh biomass, so biotransformation was the most effective for these vegetables without any significant biomass reduction. These vegetables may be adapted to soils with a higher Se content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A variety of agrochemicals, especially fertilizers, are applied indiscriminately by farmers across trapezoidal landscapes to increase productivity and satisfy the rising food demand. Around one-third of the populace in developing nations is susceptible to zinc (Zn) deficiency as a result of their direct reliance on cereals as a source of calories. Zinc, an essential micronutrient for plants, performs several critical functions throughout the life cycle of a plant. Zinc is frequently disregarded, due to its indirect contribution to the enhancement of yield. Soil Zn deficiency is one of the most prevalent micronutrient deficiencies that reduces crop yield. A deficiency of Zn in both plants and soils results from the presence of Zn in fixed forms that are inaccessible to plants, which characterizes the majority of agricultural soils. As a result, alternative and environmentally sustainable methods are required to satisfy the demand for food. It appears that the application of zinc-solubilizing bacteria (ZSB) for sustainable agriculture is feasible. Inoculating plants with ZSB is likely a more efficacious strategy for augmenting Zn translocation in diverse edible plant components. ZSB possessing plant growth-promoting characteristics can serve as bio-elicitors to promote sustainable plant growth, through various methods that are vital to the health and productivity of plants. This review provides an analysis of the efficacy of ZSB, the functional characteristics of ZSB-mediated Zn localization, the mechanism underlying Zn solubilization, and the implementation of ZSB to increase crop yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This survey aimed to establish nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes and practices, and to observe how gender influences household food-related decision-making processes in the Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) intervention areas in the Oromia and Southern Nation Nationalities and People regions of Ethiopia. The findings would inform implementation of communication for nutrition social and behaviour change among small-holder farmers as part of the SAA corporate strategy on nutrition-sensitive agriculture. The study population was smallholder farmers supported by SAA from which 311 respondents were selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected via a mixed methods approach consisting of a household survey, focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs). Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics while qualitative data was analysed using a narrative and content approach. The study focused on knowledge, attitudes and practices related to production and consumption of micronutrient-rich foods. Majority (59.5%) of the respondents were male. Men were the main decision makers on staple or commercial food crop production and proportion of produced crops to be consumed at home or sold in the market. Women mainly made decisions regarding production and consumption of fruits and vegetables, intra-household food distribution, preservation and storage. There was a lack of knowledge on iron and vitamin A fortified or biofortified sources of food. Nearly three quarters (72%) of women did not meet the minimum dietary diversity for women, a proxy indicator of adequacy of micronutrient intake and diet quality. The mean dietary diversity score was 3.8 with animal source foods being the least consumed. Not having sufficient money to buy food, unavailability of different food groups and poor intra-household food distribution were among the key reasons for lack of diverse diets. Majority of the respondents were aware of the importance of production and consumption of micronutrient-rich foods. However, there was a gap in practice and awareness about biofortified and fortified foods. While most of the respondents had produced fruits and vegetables in home gardens in the three months prior to this survey, more than half (54%) of the respondents thought it was not likely that they would produce fruits and vegetables for home consumption. More targeted nutrition campaigns are required to increase the ability of small-holder farmers to adopt best practices while reducing the barriers associated with access and consumption. Promotion of fruit and vegetable production in home gardens could be considered as option for improving household dietary quality as well as empowering women to make more decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Fortified expressed breast milk (FEBM) is a standard of care for premature and low birth weight neonates, but comes with an elevated risk of a rare but re‐emergent pathology called milk curd obstruction (MCO). Little is known about normal sonographic appearances of bowel contents in this feeding setting, making the recognition of abnormalities difficult. Thus, we aimed to describe appearances that may be considered typical pre‐ and post‐fortifier inclusion. Methods: Ten neonates of <32 weeks' gestation or a birth weight of <1,800 g recruited from Auckland City Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care between 1/5/2019 and 10/9/2019 received bowel ultrasounds within 24 h before and 10–14 days after starting FEBM. Bowel contents in six abdominal regions were assigned scores of 1–6 based on increasing solidification. Results: Lower gestational age was correlated with more solid contents on the pre‐fortifier ultrasound (P = 0.02). Fortifier was significantly associated with increasing solidity, particularly in the left abdomen (P < 0.001). The left lower quadrant and rectum accounted for much of this change (P = 0.012 and P = 0.002). One subject who subsequently developed a clinical picture consistent with early MCO had uniquely demonstrated non‐rectal solid contents (score 6). The interobserver kappa score for two assessors was 0.91 (95% CI 0.94–0.99) on still images. Conclusion: This small cohort demonstrated increasing bowel content solidification after breast milk fortification using a novel ultrasound scoring system with good interobserver agreement. Non‐rectal solid contents (score 6) appeared atypical. Ultrasound shows promise for its non‐irradiating diagnostic utility in the setting of early milk curd disease evaluation of the premature neonate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between zinc mineral nutrition and plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) is pivotal in enhancing agricultural productivity, especially in tropical regions characterized by diverse climatic conditions and soil variability. This review synthesizes and critically evaluates current knowledge regarding the synergistic interaction between zinc mineral nutrition and PGPB in tropical agricultural systems. Zinc is an essential and fundamental micronutrient for various physiological and biochemical processes in plants. Its deficiency affects plant growth and development, decreasing yields and nutritional quality. In tropical regions, where soil zinc availability is often limited or imbalanced, the PGPB, through different mechanisms such as Zn solubilization; siderophore production; and phytohormone synthesis, supports Zn uptake and assimilation, thereby facilitating the adverse effects of zinc deficiency in plants. This review outlines the impacts of Zn–PGPB interactions on plant growth, root architecture, and productivity in tropical agricultural systems. The positive relationship between PGPB and plants facilitates Zn uptake and improves nutrient use efficiency, overall crop performance, and agronomic biofortification. In addition, this review highlights the importance of considering indigenous PGPB strains for specific tropical agroecosystems, acknowledging their adaptability to local conditions and their potential in sustainable agricultural practices. It is concluded that Zn fertilizer and PGPBs have synergistic interactions and can offer promising avenues for sustainable agriculture, addressing nutritional deficiencies, improving crop resilience, and ensuring food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize is one of the important food crops after rice and wheat. It has good nutritive value in terms of starch, proteins, vitamins, and micronutrients which makes this crop important for industrial use. Many elite maize inbred lines and hybrids have already been developed which are having several combinations of nutritional quality traits, viz., quality protein maize (QPM), provitamin A, low phytate, and vitamin E using molecular marker-assisted breeding (MAB), especially in India, and China. Hence, the identification of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for various quality traits is an important aspect. Several QTLs have been identified for quality traits and introgressed into elite germplasm by various research groups to develop multi-nutrient-rich maize genotypes. The use of potential QTLs in molecular breeding with advanced phenotyping platforms for quick identification or quality check may help the breeders to develop and commercialize biofortified maize. In this review, comprehensive information about QTLs for different quality traits in maize has been discussed for their potential utility in maize breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maize flour in Uganda is milled by hundreds of enterprises, mostly small- (5-20 metric tons [MT]/day) and micro-scale (<5 MT/day) mills or firms. A mandatory maize flour fortification program exists for medium-scale mills (>20 MT/day) and policymakers are considering including smaller-scale millers. Objective: We estimated the private and public costs of maize flour fortification at different scales and explored their implications for extending the mandatory fortification to include smaller-scale mills. Methods: We used secondary data on the structure of the maize flour market and primary data on milling and fortification costs to estimate mill and regulatory costs at 3 scales of flour production: micro, small, and medium. Results: For micro-, small-, and medium-size operations, respectively, operational costs of fortification were US$13, US$9, and US$7 per metric ton (MT) of maize flour, which represented 20%, 16%, and 16% of annual operating costs, and the ratio of fortification equipment cost to mill equipment costs was higher for micro-scale mills (2.7) than for small- (0.38) and medium-scale (0.54) maize mills. Governmental regulatory costs rise if smaller-scale mills are included due to the increased number of facility inspections. Conclusions: Fortification and regulatory costs increase as production scale decreases. Up-front capital costs of fortification would be daunting for micro- and small-scale mills. Medium-scale mills, which supply social protection programs, might be able to manage fortification costs and other challenges. Decision-makers should consider all costs and cost burdens, and the realities of enforcement capabilities before expanding fortification programs to include smaller-scale operations. Plain language title: Costs of Small-scale Maize Flour Fortification in Uganda Plain language summary: A study of the costs of adding vitamins and minerals by small-scale maize flour millers in Uganda was undertaken to understand if it would be commercially beneficial from a business and operations perspective for them to do so, and if requiring them to do so would impose additional cost burdens on government to ensure that fortification standards were met. Why was the study done?: Maize flour is consumed by the majority of Uganda's population, especially the rural poor. If the flour were fortified, it would reduce vitamin and mineral deficiencies among those at risk. The most important constraint to market-wide fortification is the presence of many small-scale mills or firms that neither have the resources nor the technology to adopt and sustain the fortification process. To date, no study has been done to calculate the costs that small-scale mills would have to face to fortify flour, or what the cost implications for government would be for including smaller-scale mills in a national fortification program, including the costs of enforcing regulations. What did the researchers do?: The researchers interviewed millers of several scales of operation to collect cost information on their operations and interviewed representatives of government regulatory bodies to estimate the costs of testing maize flour to ensure compliance with regulations. Researchers estimated the cost to the mills of adding fortification to their business models, and the impacts on the government costs (eg, testing additional samples, etc.) of including smaller-scale mills in the fortification program. What did the researchers find?: The researchers looked at 3 different types of mills based on their capacity to mill maize flour—micro-scale firms milled less than 5 metric tons (MT) a day, small-scale firms milled 5 to 20 MT per day, and medium-scale firms milled over 20 MT a day. For micro-, small-, and medium-size firms, respectively, fortification increased operational costs by US$13, US$9, and US$7 per MT of maize flour, which represented 20%, 16%, and 16% of annual operating costs. Similarly, governmental regulatory costs rose if smaller-scale mills were included because of the increased number of facility inspections required since the current legislation requires mandatory annual inspections. What do the findings mean?: Fortification and regulatory costs increase as the scale of production by the millers decreases. If fortification by small- and micro-scale mills were made mandatory, up-front costs of fortification equipment and materials would be daunting for micro- and small-scale millers. Ugandan medium-scale millers might manage fortification costs and other challenges, but only if the social protection programs they supplied were of sufficient volume and regularity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato biofortification is a comprehensive approach aimed at enhancing the nutritional content of potatoes, addressing widespread nutrient deficiencies and contributing to global food security. This systematic review examines the existing literature on various aspects of potato biofortification, encompassing genetic, agronomic, and biotechnological strategies. The review highlights the nutritional significance of potatoes, emphasizing their role as a staple food in many regions. Genetic approaches to biofortification involve the identification and use of natural variations in potato germplasm to develop varieties with elevated levels of essential nutrients. This includes targeting key micronutrients, such as iron, zinc, and vitamins, through traditional breeding methods. The review explores the genetic diversity within potato germplasm and the potential for breeding programs to develop nutrient-rich varieties. Agronomic practices play a crucial role in potato biofortification, with studies demonstrating the impact of tuber priming and the application of mineral fertilizers on nutrient concentrations in potatoes. The review delves into the intricacies of agronomic biofortification, emphasizing the importance of precise dosages and timing for optimal results. Biotechnological tools, including transgenic and non-transgenic approaches, are discussed in the context of potato biofortification. The review evaluates the efficiency and ethical considerations associated with the development of biofortified transgenic potatoes and emphasizes the significance of non-transgenic approaches in addressing consumer concerns and regulatory barriers. Overall, this systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of potato biofortification research. It synthesizes findings from diverse studies, offering insights into the potential of biofortified potatoes to address hidden hunger and contribute to improved nutritional outcomes. This review also identifies knowledge gaps and areas for future research, guiding the direction of efforts to harness the full potential of potato biofortification for global food and nutrition security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background Zinc (Zn) content is of great importance in healthy human diet, crop productivity and stress tolerance in soils with zinc deficiency. The genes used to increase yield per unit area such as semi-dwarf 1 (sdw1) is commonly considered to reduce mineral content of grain. Methods In the present study, influence of sdw1.d, a widely used allele for short plant height in barley breeding, on zinc accumulation and tolerance to zinc deficiency were investigated. A near isogenic line of sdw1.d allele, its recurrent parent Tokak 157/37 and donor parent Triumph were grown in zinc-deficient and-sufficient hydroponic cultures. Two experiments were conducted until heading stage and physiological maturity. Results In zinc-deficient conditions, sdw1.d allele increased shoot dry weight by 112.4 mg plant−1, shoot Zn concentration by 0.9 ppm, but decreased root Zn concentration by 6.6 ppm. It did not affect grain characteristics, but increased grain Zn content. In zinc-sufficient conditions, sdw1.d allele increased shoot Zn content, and decreased root Zn content. sdw1.d did not affect grain weight but increased grain Zn concentration by about 30% under zinc-sufficient conditions. The results showed that sdw1.d allele has no negative effect on tolerance to zinc deficiency, and even promotes tolerance to zinc deficiency by more Zn translocation. It was revealed that sdw1.d allele improves Zn accumulation under both zinc-deficient and zinc-sufficient condition. The sdw1.d allele could contribute to solving the problems in plant growth and development caused by zinc-deficiency via improving tolerance to zinc-deficiency. It could also provide a better Zn biofortification.

The integration of zinc nanoparticles (Zn NPs) with biochar offers a transformative approach to sustainable agriculture by enhancing plant productivity and human nutrition. This combination improves soil health, optimizes nutrient uptake, and increases resilience to environmental stressors, leading to superior crop performance. Our literature review shows that combining Zn NPs with biochar significantly boosts the crop nutrient composition, including proteins, vitamins, sugars, and secondary metabolites. This enhancement improves the plant tolerance to environmental challenges, crop quality, and shelf life. This technique addresses the global issue of Zn deficiency by biofortifying food crops with increased Zn levels, such as mung beans, lettuce, tomatoes, wheat, maize, rice, citrus, apples, and microgreens. Additionally, Zn NPs and biochar improve soil properties by enhancing water retention, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and microbial activity, making soils more fertile and productive. The porous structure of biochar facilitates the slow and sustained release of Zn, ensuring its bioavailability over extended periods and reducing the need for frequent fertilizer applications. This synergy promotes sustainable agricultural practices and reduces the environmental footprint of the traditional farming methods. However, potential ecological risks such as biomagnification, nanoparticle accumulation, and toxicity require careful consideration. Comprehensive risk assessments and management strategies are essential to ensure that agricultural benefits do not compromise the environmental or human health. Future research should focus on sustainable practices for deploying Zn NPs in agriculture, balancing food security and ecological integrity and positioning this approach as a viable solution for nutrient-efficient and sustainable agriculture.

Abstract Micronutrient malnutrition is one of the major causes of human disorders in the developing world. Iron (Fe) is an important micronutrient due to its use in human metabolism such as immune system and energy production. Estimates indicate that above 30% of the global population is at risk of Fe deficiency, posing a particular threat to infants and pregnant women. Plants have adapted various strategies for uptake, transport, accumulation, and storage of Fe in tissues and organs which later can be consumed by humans. Biofortification refers to increase in micronutrient concentration in edible parts of plants and understanding the pathways for Fe accumulation in plants. Conventional plant breeding, transgenics, agronomic interventions, and microbe‐mediated biofortification are all potential methods to address Fe deficiency. This review article critically evaluates key aspects pertaining to Fe biofortification in cereal crops. It encompasses an in‐depth analysis of the holistic presence of Fe, its significance in both human and plant contexts, and the diverse strategies employed in Fe uptake, transport, accumulation, and storage in plant parts destined for human consumption. Additionally, the article explores the bioavailability of Fe and investigates strategies for biofortification, with a specific emphasis on both traditional methods and recent breakthroughs aimed at enhancing the Fe content in food crops. Keeping in view the significance of Fe for human life, appropriate biofortification strategies may serve better to eliminate hidden hunger rather than its artificial supplementation.

Biofortification of provitamin A in maize is an attractive and sustainable remedy to the problem of vitamin A deficiency in developing countries. The utilization of molecular markers represents a promising avenue to facilitate the development of provitamin A (PVA)-enriched maize varieties. We screened 752 diverse tropical yellow/orange maize lines using kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) makers to validate the use of KASP markers in PVA maize breeding. To this end, a total of 161 yellow/orange inbred lines, selected from among the 752 lines, were evaluated for their endosperm PVA and other carotenoid compounds levels in two separate trials composed of 63 and 98 inbred lines in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed among the yellow maize inbred lines studied for all carotenoid profiles. An inbred line TZMI1017, introduced by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) showed the highest level of PVA (12.99 µg/g) and β-carotene (12.08 µg/g). The molecular screening showed 43 yellow maize inbred lines carrying at least three of the favorable alleles of the KASP markers. TZMI1017 inbred line also carried the favorable alleles of almost all markers. In addition, nine locally developed inbred lines had medium to high PVA concentrations varying from 5.11 µg/g to 10.76 µg/g and harbored the favorable alleles of all the KASP PVA markers. Association analysis between molecular markers and PVA content variation in the yellow/orange maize inbred lines did not reveal a significant, predictable correlation. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the underlying genetic architecture of the PVA content in this germplasm. However, we recommend strategic utilization of the maize-inbred lines with higher PVA content to enhance the PVA profile of the breeding program’s germplasm.

Micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) particularly zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) remain widespread in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) due to low dietary intake. Wheat is an important source of energy globally, although cultivated wheat is inherently low in grain micronutrient concentrations. Malawian wheat/Am. muticum and Malawian wheat/T. urartu BC1F3 introgression lines, developed by crossing three Malawian wheat varieties (Kenya nyati, Nduna and Kadzibonga) with DH-348 (wheat/Am. muticum) and DH-254 (wheat/T. urartu), were phenotyped for grain Zn and Fe, and associated agronomic traits in Zn-deficient soils, in Malawi. 98% (47) of the BC1F3 introgression lines showed higher Zn above the checks Paragon, Chinese Spring, Kadzibonga, Kenya Nyati and Nduna. 23% (11) of the introgression lines showed a combination of high yields and an increase in grain Zn by 16-30 mg kg -1 above Nduna and Kadzibonga, and 11-25 mg kg -1 above Kenya nyati, Paragon and Chinese Spring. Among the 23%, 64% (7) also showed 8-12 mg kg -1 improvement in grain Fe compared to Nduna and Kenya nyati. Grain Zn concentrations showed a significant positive correlation with grain Fe, whilst grain Zn and Fe negatively and significantly correlated with TKW and grain yield. This work will contribute to the efforts of increasing mineral nutrient density in wheat, specifically targeting countries in the SSA.

ABSTRACT Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a grain legume rich in proteins and micronutrients, particularly iron and zinc. In this study, 30 small‐seeded genotypes were planted in five locations in Ethiopia, following an alpha lattice design with three replications, to determine environmental and genotypic influence on the Fe and Zn concentration. Based on their Fe and Zn contents, bean cultivars were evaluated for adaptability and stability using AMMI analysis. The Fe concentrations of raw bean seed varied from 44.4 to 84.4 μg/g within the panel of small‐seeded genotypes, with an average range of variance of 18 μg/g across environments, and its seed Zn concentrations varied from 19.7 to 32.3 μg/g, with an average range of variance of 12.6 μg/g across environments. The averages bean Fe concentration among the small‐seeded genotypes across sites in Ethiopia was 62.2 and 26.1 μg/g for Zn concentrations. Results from the analysis of variance using the AMMI model indicated that genotypes accounted for 20.53% and 9.49% of the total variance in seed Fe and Zn concentrations, respectively. The environment had a greater impact, affecting 60.92% and 81.52% of total sum of squares for Fe and Zn concentrations, respectively. According to the broad‐sense heritability, there appears to be some genetic control over Fe and Zn concentrations. However, the substantial effects of the environment and genotype‐by‐environment interaction on Fe and Zn concentrations in small‐seeded genotypes indicates breeding for higher amounts of trace minerals in new bean varieties could be a challenging task. This means the notion that beans can be biofortified to have higher concentrations of Fe and Zn might not be achievable in Ethiopia. A shift in breeding strategies that focuses on traits to enhance the bioavailability of Fe and Zn from bean is warranted and could be a solution to enhance the delivery of iron from small‐seeded beans produced in Ethiopia.

Zinc (Zn) malnutrition is a major concern to many crops and human health in terms of food security. In addition to the Zn deficiency, there was also a serious climate threat to wheat cultivation with global warming causing severe droughts. There is a dire need to develop the synergistic use of organic and inorganic stimulants in enhancing tolerance and nutrient uptake under arid zone agricultural environments. Recently, moringa leaf extract (MLE30) obtained prominence emerging as an organic bio-stimulant and its combined ue with zinc solution (ZnSO4·7H2O) may have potential results in producing the Zn biofortified wheat grains. Two years of field research trials were planned for improving the tolerance with Zn bio-fortified grains by inducing the Zn application via MLE30 as a novel agronomic biofortification approach in Cholistan's arid environment. The experiments laid out by following the various factors including Zn application techniques having treatments control (dry seed), hydro-priming, Zn-priming MLE30, Zn-foliar MLE30, Zn-soil MLE30; wheat cultivars having Ghazi-2019, Zincol-2016; terminal drought stress having treatments normalCondition (irrigation was applied at tillering, booting, grain formation, milking stages), terminal droughtTillering, terminal droughtMilking in experimental research area, Arid Zone Research Institute, Bahawalpur, Pakistan during the winter season 2021–2022 and 2022–2023. A randomized complete block design was used with three factorial designs and replicated thrice. Data revealed the significant interaction of applied various treatments of Zn with MLE30 in wheat cultivars under terminal drought conditions during both years of trials. It was observed that Zn-priming MLE30 improved the morphological growth and yield attributes of the Zincol-16 cultivar under the induced terminal droughtTillering and Milking after normalCondition during year-II as per year-I. Seed Zn-priming MLE30 achieved the maximum results in anti-oxidant contents production against terminal droughtMilking following Tillering as compared to normalCondition in Zincol-16 as per Ghazi-19 wheat plants during the second year of the experiment. Observation illustrated that grains Zn contents obtained the highest values by the applied treatment of seed Zn-priming MLE30 followed by Zn-foliar MLE30, Zn-soil MLE30, hydropriming under the induced terminal droughtTillering as compared to normalCondition during both years of trials. Average economic analysis depicted the best benefit-cost ratio of seed Zn-priming MLE30 treatment under normalCondition followed by terminal droughtMilking in Zincol-16 as compared to Ghazi-19 wheat cultivar. So, the findings of this project research suggested that seed Zn-priming MLE30 with wheat Zincol-16 is the most cost-effective and easily adaptable approach for healthy Zn biofortified grains production during unfavorable terminal drought conditions.

Context: Given the global significance of wheat production and consumption, it is imperative to achieve high yields of nutritious wheat grains. However, the inadequate availability of zinc (Zn) in salt-affected soils can aggravate salt stress, decrease wheat grain yield, and grain Zn concentration. This study compared the effectiveness of soil Zn application and seed Zn priming in increasing Zn biofortification and grain yield of Zn-biofortified wheat grown in alkaline-calcareous soil affected by salts. Methods: Eighteen pots were filled with alkaline-calcareous soil containing elevated levels of soluble salts and exchangeable sodium (Na). The pots were subjected to soil Zn application (0 or 8 mg kg−1) and seed priming (control/non-, hydro-, or Zn-primed seeds) treatments, applied to a Zn-biofortified wheat (cv. Zincol-2016). Plant samples were collected at the heading and maturity stages to measure parameters related to plant growth and grain quality. Findings: Soil Zn application increased grain and straw yields across seed priming treatments by a maximum of 23 %, and seed Zn priming increased grain and straw yields across soil Zn rates by a maximum of 21 %. This yield response was accompanied by significant increases in grain potassium and Zn concentrations at maturity, as well as non-significant to significant increases in photosynthetic parameters (stomatal conductance, photosynthetic rate and transpiration rate) in flag leaves during heading. Additionally, compared to control, the combined treatment of soil Zn application and seed Zn priming decreased grain Na concentration by 14 %. Compared to control, both soil Zn application and seed Zn priming significantly increased grain Zn concentration. With the combined application treatment, the grain Zn concentration reached 27 mg kg−1, but it remained significantly below the desired level of >37 mg kg−1. Seed Zn priming decreased the phytate-to-Zn molar ratio in grains, while the treatments that received soil Zn application exhibited the lowest values of this ratio, potentially increasing Zn bioavailability to humans. Conclusions: The findings suggest that soil Zn application is more effective in enhancing grain yield and Zn concentration, while seed Zn priming remains crucial in low-Zn and high-salt soils. Future research should optimize Zn application strategies for Zn-biofortified wheat cultivated in salt-affected fields.

Iron (Fe) deficiency is a pressing global health concern, particularly affecting vulnerable groups like women and children in resource-limited areas. Addressing this challenge requires innovative solutions, and biofortified crops, like Fe-enriched wheat, can offer a sustainable solution to improve nutrition in cereal-based diets. While conventional breeding methods have yielded competitive Fe-biofortified wheat varieties across various nations, the imminent challenges in securing food and nutritional security for the future necessitate a delicate balance: maintaining genetic progress in grain yield while concurrently elevating grain Fe content. Despite substantial strides in elucidating the intricacies of Fe homeostasis, there remains a substantial knowledge gap, especially in the context of wheat and similar crop species. It is paramount to gain a comprehensive understanding of the hurdles impeding Fe enrichment in plant tissues and delve into the diverse mechanisms governing Fe uptake, translocation, transport, and storage within wheat. To surmount these challenges, researchers have explored a multitude of strategies, including mutagenesis, QTL mapping, meta-QTL analysis, GWAS, transgenesis, and genome editing. Furthermore, harnessing the potential of microorganisms, particularly engineered endophytes coupled with plant genes associated with Fe accumulation, emerges as a promising and pragmatic tool for augmenting Fe biofortification in wheat. This comprehensive review underscores the significant advancements made in unravelling the genetic and genomic aspects of Fe accumulation in wheat, while also delineating the future research directions in this field. By synergistically deploying these multifaceted approaches, scientists hold the potential to develop wheat varieties characterized by enhanced grain Fe content, improved bioavailability, and reduced anti-nutritional factors. Such innovations can play a pivotal role in advancing nutrition and health outcomes for populations reliant on wheat-based diets, particularly in resource-scarce regions.

Space exploration requires consideration of the dietary requirements of astronauts. Not only do nutritional requirements differ in space versus Earth, but limitations to payload combined with the length of space missions means that astronauts will need to produce as much food as possible in situ. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) possesses many traits that make it suitable for space farming. Its small size, quick life cycle, large harvestable fraction and previous successful cultivation aboard the International Space Station (ISS) means that it represents a model plant for space cultivation. Here we discuss the suitability and requirements of lettuce as a dietary source on space missions. Using simplex linear programming, we identify the ration sizes of existing lettuce varieties to optimise nutrient delivery to both men and women on Earth and in Space. Whilst, unsurprisingly, a diet consisting only of lettuce cannot provide full nutrient requirements, there are differences in ration size and composition depending upon gender and location, indicating the importance of group composition when designing farming systems. We then review different routes to the biofortification of lettuce based on current literature and perform the modelling approach to determine portion sizes of theoretical ‘maximally fortified lettuce’, whose nutritional content was predicted based on the combined biofortification strategies. Finally, we conclude with the application of these approaches towards future space farming of a variety of crop species.