Summary
This paper by Welch and Graham, published in the Journal of Experimental Botany, reviews the scientific rationale and practical feasibility of breeding staple food crops with enhanced micronutrient content as a sustainable, cost-effective approach to reducing micronutrient malnutrition globally. The authors draw on agronomic and plant physiology evidence to argue that sufficient genetic variation exists within major crop species to support meaningful gains in grain mineral density. The paper is considered a foundational contribution to the biofortification field, situating plant breeding within a broader public health framework.
UK applicability
Although the paper is international in scope and primarily addresses micronutrient deficiency in low- and middle-income countries, its findings on genetic variation in grain mineral content are relevant to UK cereal breeding programmes and to policy debates around food quality and nutrient density in staple crops grown under UK conditions.
Key measures
Grain micronutrient concentration (mg/kg); genetic variation in mineral accumulation; bioavailability estimates; prevalence of micronutrient deficiency in target populations
Outcomes reported
The paper reviews the potential for plant breeding to enhance micronutrient concentrations (particularly iron, zinc, and selenium) in staple crops such as wheat, rice, and maize. It examines the agronomic, genetic, and nutritional dimensions of biofortification as a strategy to address hidden hunger in human populations.
Topic tags
Dig deeper with Pulse AI.
Pulse AI has read the whole catalogue. Ask about this record, its theme, or how the findings apply to UK farming and policy — every answer cites the underlying studies.