Importance of biofortification in crops

Micronutrient malnutrition, commonly referred to as hidden hunger, affects billions of people worldwide, particularly in developing countries where diets are dominated by micronutrient-poor staple crops. Biofortification has emerged as a sustainable, agriculture-based strategy to enhance the nutritional quality of food crops by increasing the concentration and bioavailability of essential micronutrients during plant growth. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the concept, approaches and importance of biofortification, with emphasis on targeted nutrients such as iron, zinc and vitamin A and their role in improving human health. The agronomic and environmental benefits of biofortification, including improved crop productivity, nutrient use efficiency and climate resilience, are discussed. The review also highlights challenges related to nutrient bioavailability, adoption and policy integration, along with future research needs. Particular attention is given to the relevance of biofortification in the Indian context and its role in addressing nutritional security under climate change. Biofortification represents a cost-effective and scalable intervention that bridges agriculture and nutrition, offering long-term solutions to micronutrient deficiencies and contributing to sustainable food systems.