Biofortification in Wheat : Research Progress, Potential Impact, and Policy Imperatives

Biofortification is a promising strategy to reduce the persisting micronutrient deficiency. Biofortifying wheat grains has the potential to alleviate malnutrition as it is one of the major staple crops. In this study, we examine the research progress and impact of agronomic and genetic efforts on wheat biofortification. Developing countries like India, Pakistan, and China lead the research in wheat biofortification, followed by Turkey, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. Using meta-analysis we find that agronomic biofortification leads to a 1.6 standard deviation (SD) and 1.7 SD increase in zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) concentration, respectively. Genetic biofortification efforts lead to a 74% and 79% increase in Zn and Fe contents, respectively. The effects of biofortification were larger in Asia and Africa, where micronutrient deficiency and hidden hunger are widespread. In India, genetic biofortification has more potential than agronomic biofortification as the impact of the former on wheat micronutrient concentration was around three times higher than the latter. Further, genetic biofortification has been recognized as an economical and sustainable strategy. India’s first biofortified wheat variety (WB 02), since its release, is cultivated in around 144,256 hectares generating an estimated economic surplus of ₹ 50.54 million at the constant price (base year as 2011-12). We propose policy inputs to strengthen the value chain on biofortification, followed by a framework to upscale the adoption of biofortified wheat varieties to combat hunger and improve its effect on nutritional outcomes