ADVANCING NUTRITIONAL SECURITY THROUGH ZINC-ENRICHED WHEAT, RICE, AND MAIZE

Abstract

he Green Revolution significantly increased the yield of staple food crops, helping to meet the nutritional needs of a rapidly growing global population. However, this advancement came at a cost: a decline in the micronutrient content of foods, leading to widespread deficiencies—most notably zinc (Zn). Today, nearly 30% of the world’s population suffers from Zn deficiency, predominantly in developing regions, especially South and Southeast Asia.

Given the critical role of Zn in crop productivity and human health, this review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current strategies for Zn biofortification in three major cereal crops: wheat, rice, and maize. It focuses on four key approaches: (i) agronomic biofortification through fertilizer application, seed priming, organic amendments, and microbial interventions; (ii) genetic enhancement via conventional breeding; (iii) transgenic methods; and (iv) nano-based Zn delivery systems. By critically comparing these strategies across crops, the review highlights research gaps and identifies future directions for optimizing Zn biofortification.

While existing studies often address individual crops or approaches, no previous review has examined Zn deficiency across all three major cereals within a unified framework. This comprehensive analysis offers valuable insights for improving global food and nutritional security and supports progress toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030.