Abstract
Around the world, many people suffer from malnutrition. Malnutrition is when the body does not get enough important nutrients to grow or survive and extreme cases can lead to death. Scientists have developed a process called biofortification to improve the nutritional content of crops and prevent malnutrition. Today, biofortification can be done through genetic modification, which involves manipulating the DNA of the crop. One of the most successful examples of a biofortified crop is Golden Rice, a crop enhanced with a substance called beta-carotene, which converts into vitamin A in our bodies. It is important for everyone to learn about biofortification and genetic modification, especially when this process can be used to help many people who would otherwise be suffering from malnutrition.
Highlights
Around the world, many people su er from malnutrition
HIDDEN HUNGER Another term for micronutrient deficiency, meaning a lack of vitamins and minerals needed by the body for proper growth and development
BIOFORTIFICATION A process by which the nutritional worth of food is increased through selective breeding or genetic modification
Summary
Imagine a disorder that a ects billion people worldwide. That is almost one in three people! Sadly, this disorder can cause both mental and physical issues, such as weight loss, decreased heart function, and depression (World Health Organization). This problem is called malnutrition, and it is related to the food that we eat! Some people su er from malnutrition because they do not get enough food to eat. Micronutrients are substances the human body needs in tiny amounts, which is why the prefix “micro” (small) is used These micronutrients are important for growth, development, and survival. When people do not get enough micronutrients, this type of malnutrition is called a micronutrient deficiency. IDA is common because it is generally di cult for people to consume enough iron in the form that the body can use. IDA is common in countries with lots of starchy foods, like rice and wheat. These crops provide calories, but few micronutrients. Other types of micronutrient deficiencies include iodine and vitamin B deficiency
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