Biofortification of baby corn: Integrating agronomic and genetic approaches to address zinc micronutrient deficiencies - global perspectives and future challenges

The central dilemma of the 21st century lies in sustaining nutrient-rich production under the pressures of rapid urbanization, weather abnormalities, and intensified agronomic practices. These factors have collectively heightened the burden on the remaining cropland to produce nutritionally dense food per unit area, while using the same amount of inputs. Moreover, modern high-yielding varieties often exhibit nutrient dilution, wherein increased productivity is accompanied by reduced micronutrient concentrations, thereby exacerbating global zinc (Zn) deficiency that affects more than two billion people worldwide. Zn deficiency manifests critically in cereal-based diets, with maize serving as a diagnostic indicator crop, where acute deficiency presents as characteristic the white bud symptom. To address this malnutrition regular dietary intake of essential nutrients is required in their natural form. A compelling strategy involves consumption of nutrient rich crops generated through the deliberate process of biofortification. Baby corn (Zea mays L.) presents unique fortifying opportunity through its rapid 60-day maturation cycle and wider adaptability throughout the year, facilitating quick nutritional interventions to support food security. Biofortification encompasses dual approaches: agronomic methods involving targeted Zn application through seed, foliar, soil, or combined delivery systems, and genetic strategies utilizing conventional breeding, molecular methods, and transgenic technologies. This review synthesizes the knowledge on Zn biofortification strategies in baby corn, critical aspects addressed include enhancing bioavailability, consumer acceptance, and economic viability. Future perspectives encompass the integration of agronomic and genetic approaches, emerging genomic tools, policy frameworks, and scalable implementation strategies essential for global biofortification success.