Agronomic Biofortification Research Articles

Tracing isotopically labeled selenium nanoparticles in plants via single-particle ICP-mass spectrometry

Agronomic biofortification using selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) shows potential for addressing selenium deficiency but further research on SeNPs-plants interaction is required before it can be effectively used to improve nutritional quality. In this work, single-particle inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (SP-ICP-MS) was used for tracing isotopically labeled SeNPs (82SeNPs) in Oryza sativa L. tissues. For this purpose, SeNPs with natural isotopic abundance and 82SeNPs were synthesized by a chemical method. The NPs characterization by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed that enriched NPs maintained the basic properties of unlabeled NPs, showing spherical shape, monodispersity, and sizes in the nano-range (82.8 ± 6.6 nm and 73.2 ± 4.4 nm for SeNPs and 82SeNPs, respectively). The use of 82SeNPs resulted in an 11-fold enhancement in the detection power for ICP-MS analysis, accompanied by an improvement in the signal-to-background ratio and a reduction of the size limits of detection from 89.9 to 39.9 nm in SP-ICP-MS analysis. This enabled 82SeNPs to be tracked in O. sativa L. plants cultivated under foliar application of 82SeNPs. Tracing studies combining SP-ICP-MS and TEM-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy data confirmed the uptake of intact 82SeNPs by rice leaves, with most NPs remaining in the leaves and very few particles translocated to shoots and roots. Translocation of Se from leaves to roots and shoots was found to be lower when applied as NPs compared to selenite application. From the size distributions, as obtained by SP-ICP-MS, it can be concluded that a fraction of the 82SeNPs remained within the same size range as that of the applied NP suspension, while other fraction underwent an agglomeration process in the leaves, as confirmed by TEM images. This illustrates the potential of SP-ICP-MS analysis of isotopically enriched 82SeNPs for tracing NPs in the presence of background elements within complex plant matrices, providing important information about the uptake, accumulation, and biotransformation of SeNPs in rice plants.

Agronomic Biofortification Increases Concentrations of Zinc and Storage Proteins in Cowpea Grains

Zinc (Zn) is crucial for both plant metabolism and human nutrition, with its deficiency being a global health concern. Strategies to increase its availability in food, such as agronomic biofortification, have gained prominence. This study evaluated the impact of foliar spraying of Zn [at full bloom stage: 0 (control) and 600 g ha−1, as ZnSO4⋅7H2O] on the nutritional quality of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) grains. Field experiments involving 20 cowpea genotypes were carried out over two seasons in a Typic Quartzipsamment under a no-tillage system. The photosynthetic responses of cowpea plants and the concentrations of Zn, amino acids, sucrose, total sugars, and storage proteins (glutelin, albumin, prolamin, and globulin) in grains were analyzed. All genotypes showed enrichment of Zn in grains in response to ZnSO4⋅7H2O application compared to untreated plants. Foliar spraying of ZnSO4⋅7H2O during initial grain filling was ideal for increasing Zn concentration in grains and improving plant physiological processes. Additionally, Zn fertilization led to higher concentrations of storage and total amino acids and proteins in the grains, supporting the rational application of Zn in cowpea production to improve the nutritional quality of grains and increase plant productivity.

Onion quality and yield after agronomic biofortification with selenium

Onion quality and yield after agronomic biofortification with selenium

The Growth of Biofortified Mustard Green Plants with Iron and Zinc through Foliar Spray

Abstract Agronomic biofortification of iron and zinc is important to increase iron and zinc content in mustard greens, because the amounts are still too small to meet the iron and zinc needs of the human body. However, the growth must be evaluated to determine the right concentration for iron and zinc biofortification in mustard greens that do not inhibit or are toxic to mustard growth. This study aims to evaluate the growth of mustard plants undergoing iron and zinc biofortification through foliar spray. The study was conducted in the Karanganyar screen house using a randomized block design with 2 factors (Fe-EDTA and Zn-EDTA, each concentration 0; 0.2; 0.4; and 0.6 g/L). Based on the result, there was an interaction between Fe and Zn concentrations in the number of leaves and leaf area. It also showed a positive correlation between all growth parameters. Spraying of Fe and Zn with a concentration of 0.2-0.6 g/L does not inhibit or be toxic for the growth of mustard green plants, but the spraying of Fe and Zn has not been able to produce better mustard green growth because there is no significant increase in mustard green growth compared to the control plant.

Agronomic Bio-fortification of Zinc Improves the Yield and Quality of Fodder Oat

Agronomic Bio-fortification of Zinc Improves the Yield and Quality of Fodder Oat

Agronomic biofortification of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seeds with chromium: Implication on nutritional, anti-nutritional, mineral and in-vitro protein digestibility

Fenugreek and chromium have shown anti-diabetic properties in several studies. Some researchers have tried to biofortify fenugreek with chromium through soil irrigation and soaking methods. In the present study, fenugreek seeds were biofortified with chromium through foliar application of potassium dichromate (FAPD) at varying levels (0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8%, and 1%), in two stages (ten days after flowering and before pod formation). The results revealed that FAPD significantly (p < 0.05) increased crude protein (19.80%) and crude fiber (4.44%), while dietary fiber decreased (22.78%), because of oxidative stress induced by chromium treatment leading to the breakdown of critical cellular components due to decreased growth with increase in treatment levels. Biofortification through FAPD significantly (p < 0.05) increased chromium (89.87%), potassium (6.48%), phosphorus (7.10%), and zinc (44.74%) content of seeds. Biofortified seeds exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) elevated levels of total phenols (35.01%), flavonoids (14.93%), ascorbic acid (48.04%), and antioxidant activity (15.04%) compared to the control group, up to 0.6% level of FAPD, beyond which it showed progressive reduction in bioactive compounds. As the level of FAPD increased, a significant reduction in tannins (10.61%) and phytic acid (48.89%) was observed, which in turn significantly enhanced the IVPD. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy confirms the changes in the nutritional and bioactive compounds.

Enhancing Nutritional Value of Urdbean (Vigna mungo L. hepper) Through Agronomic Biofortification with Zinc and Iron

Zn &amp; Fe deficiencies are prevalent nutritional concerns globally, particularly in developing countries, leading to various health complications such as stunted growth, anaemia, and compromised immune function. Traditional methods of addressing these deficiencies, such as dietary supplementation, are often limited in effectiveness, especially in regions with resource constraints. Biofortification emerges as a promising strategy to address iron and zinc deficiencies in populations with limited access to diverse diets. In this study, we investigate the efficacy of foliar applications of zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) and ferrous sulphate (FeSO4) at different growth stages of Urdbean (Vigna mungo) to enhance the concentration of these essential minerals in the grains. By utilizing agronomic practices, we aim to increase the nutritional value of urdbean grains, thereby contributing to the alleviation of malnutrition. The study was conducted at the Research Farm of the Department of Agronomy, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola. The experimental design comprised a randomized block design with three replications. Ten treatments were evaluated, including various combinations of foliar applications of ZnSO4 and FeSO4 at flower and pod initiation stage, along with control treatments. Foliar sprays were applied plot-wise as per the designated treatments. Among the treatments, T7, which involved the foliar application of both ZnSO4 and FeSO4 at flower and pod initiation stages, exhibited the highest increase in Zn &amp; Fe concentration in urdbean seeds. Conversely, treatment T10, which received 100% RDF showed lesser improvements in nutrient concentration compared to other treatments. Foliar applications of ZnSO4 and FeSO4 at specific growth stages effectively increased the concentration of Zn &amp; Fe in urdbean grains along with yield. Further optimization of nutrient application rates and timing may be necessary to balance nutritional enhancement with yield considerations. Biofortification through agronomic practices holds promise as a sustainable approach to addressing nutritional deficiencies and promoting food security in resource-constrained regions.

Agronomic biofortification of basmati rice (Oryza sativa L.) through iron and boron under varying seedling densities

At present, we have adequate production of rice to fulfill the needs of humans. Now it is time to produce biofortified rice, whose grains contain enough amounts of nutrients like iron and boron. Two field experiments were carried out in Kharif 2019 and 2020 at Meerut (Uttar Pradesh), India, to find the effect of iron and boron nutrition on rice with different planting densities. The main plot treatment consists of three planting densities, and the subplot treatment consists of five foliar applications of micronutrients. They were tested in a split-plot design (SPD) with three replications. The results revealed that the rice transplanted with one seedling/hill gave the highest iron and boron content in grains and/or the crop fortified with iron and boron at 0.1 and 0.04% applied at the maximum tillering (MT) and panicle initiation (PI) stages of rice, respectively. The higher values of yield-contributing characters such as effective tillers/m2, panicle length (cm), grain weight/panicle (g), and test weight (g), as well as quality parameters such as nutrient content in grain (mg/kg), volume expansion ratio, protein content in grains (%), and amylose content (%) of rice were noticed in one seedling/hill except effective tillers/m2 during the first and second years. Application of Fe and B at the MT and PI stages of rice improved almost all the yield attributes and quality parameters. Planting density of two and three seedlings/hill was recorded at par values of grain yield, followed by one seedling/hill. Rice transplanted with three seedlings/hill obtained an average of 10.1 and 10.6% more grain yield than one seedling/hill during the first and second years, respectively. However, the application of Fe at 0.1% and B at 0.04% during both stages through foliar spray resulted in the highest seed yield and showed parity with the application of iron at 0.1% at the MT stage and boron at 0.04% at the PI stage. Economics revealed that the planting density of three seedlings/hill gave the maximum net returns of 61,585 and 66,752 ₹/ha with a benefit–cost ratio of 2.12 and 2.19 during 2019 and 2020, respectively. Furthermore, the highest net returns (62,188 and 67,938 ₹/ha) and benefit–cost ratio (2.15 and 2.23) were observed from the treatment of iron at 0.1% and boron at 0.04% at the MT and PI stages during the first and second years, respectively.

Biofortification of Plant- and Animal-Based Foods in Limiting the Problem of Microelement Deficiencies-A Narrative Review.

With a burgeoning global population, meeting the demand for increased food production presents challenges, particularly concerning mineral deficiencies in diets. Micronutrient shortages like iron, iodine, zinc, selenium, and magnesium carry severe health implications, especially in developing nations. Biofortification of plants and plant products emerges as a promising remedy to enhance micronutrient levels in food. Utilizing agronomic biofortification, conventional plant breeding, and genetic engineering yields raw materials with heightened micronutrient contents and improved bioavailability. A similar strategy extends to animal-derived foods by fortifying eggs, meat, and dairy products with micronutrients. Employing "dual" biofortification, utilizing previously enriched plant materials as a micronutrient source for livestock, proves an innovative solution. Amid biofortification research, conducting in vitro and in vivo experiments is essential to assess the bioactivity of micronutrients from enriched materials, emphasizing digestibility, bioavailability, and safety. Mineral deficiencies in human diets present a significant health challenge. Biofortification of plants and animal products emerges as a promising approach to alleviate micronutrient deficiencies, necessitating further research into the utilization of biofortified raw materials in the human diet, with a focus on bioavailability, digestibility, and safety.

Foliar selenium biofortification of soybean: the potential for transformation of mineral selenium into organic forms.

Selenium (Se) deficiency, stemming from malnutrition in humans and animals, has the potential to disrupt many vital physiological processes, particularly those reliant on specific selenoproteins. Agronomic biofortification of crops through the application of Se-containing sprays provides an efficient method to enhance the Se content in the harvested biomass. An optimal candidate for systematic enrichment, guaranteeing a broad trophic impact, must meet several criteria: (i) efficient accumulation of Se without compromising crop yield, (ii) effective conversion of mineral Se fertilizer into usable organically bound Se forms (Seorg), (iii) acceptance of a Se-enriched crop as livestock feed, and (iv), interest from the food processing industry in utilization of Se-enriched outputs. Hence, priority should be given to high-protein leafy crops, such as soybean. A three-year study in the Czech Republic was conducted to investigate the response of field-grown soybean plants to foliar application of Na2SeO4 solutions (0, 15, 40, and 100 g/ha Se); measured outcomes included crop yield, Se distribution in aboveground biomass, and the chemical speciation of Se in seeds. Seed yield was unaffected by applied SeO4 2-, with Se content reaching levels as high as 16.2 mg/kg. The relationship between SeO4 2-dose and Se content in seeds followed a linear regression model. Notably, the soybeans demonstrated an impressive 73% average recovery of Se in seeds. Selenomethionine was identified as the predominant species of Se in enzymatic hydrolysates of soybean, constituting up to 95% of Seorg in seeds. Minor Se species, such as selenocystine, selenite, and selenate, were also detected. The timing of Se spraying influenced both plant SeO4 2- biotransformation and total content in seeds, emphasizing the critical importance of optimizing the biofortification protocol. Future research should explore the economic viability, long-term ecological sustainability, and the broad nutritional implications of incorporating Se-enriched soybeans into food for humans and animals.

Effect of Agronomic Biofortification of Zn and Fe on Growth, Yield and Economics of Pigeonpea

Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan) is a major leguminous crop providing substantial nutritional benefits, especially protein to millions of people worldwide. However, its yield and nutritional quality are often constrained by micronutrient deficiencies, particularly zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe). This study investigates the effects of agronomic fortification with Zn and Fe on the growth, yield parameters and overall yield of pigeonpea. The experiment was conducted through a randomized complete block design with nine treatments and replicated thrice. Agronomic fortification involved foliar application of Zn and Fe at flowering and pod development stages. Results indicated that among different treatments the combined foliar application of 0.5 % ZnSO4 + 0.5 % FeSO4 at flower and pod initiation recorded significantly higher plant height (156.7 cm), number of branches per plant (16.8), number of pods per plant (98.5), number of seeds per pod (5.4), pod weight per plant (128.5 g), seed weight per plant (83.5 g), seed yield (1056 kg ha-1) and stalk yield (2503 kg ha-1) in the fortified treatments compared to the control. Notably, the combined Zn-Fe fortification exhibited the most pronounced effects on growth and yield parameters. Overall, agronomic fortification with Zn and Fe positively influenced the growth, yield parameters and yield of pigeonpea, suggesting its potential as a sustainable strategy to alleviate micronutrient deficiencies and enhance crop productivity in pigeonpea cultivation systems.

Combining Zinc Biofortification and Native Trichoderma Inoculation Strategies for Subterranean Clover

Using beneficial microorganisms along with sustainable strategies such as agronomic biofortification offers eco-friendly alternatives to combat climate change in ecosystems like dehesas. This study analyzes the combined effects of four wild Trichoderma spp. isolated from Extremadura, Spain (T. koningiopsis, two T. gamsii, and T. koningii, with negative and positive controls) and four Zn biofortification treatments (no Zn application; soil application of 5 mg of ZnSO4·7H2O per kg of soil, labeled soil Zn; two foliar applications of 5 mL 0.5% ZnSO4·7H2O, labeled foliar Zn; and soil + foliar combination, labeled SF) on Trifolium subterraneum performance. The combination of T. koningiopsis and T. gamsii with foliar Zn improved plant growth by up to 34.4%. Zinc accumulation was about 30% higher when T. gamsii and T. koningii were applied with SF, and their inoculation resulted in a 2.5-fold increase in ash. Trichoderma spp. affected nodulation differently; both T. gamsii inhibited nodulation by 24%, whereas neither T. koningiopsis nor T. koningii showed differences from the controls. These results highlight the potential of combining beneficial microorganisms with biofortification strategies to address nutrient deficiencies and improve agricultural sustainability. However, the complex interactions between both factors underscore the importance of strain selection and call for further research to optimize application strategies and elucidate underlying mechanisms.

Agronomic Biofortification of Fodder Maize (Zea mays L.) with Zn for Improving Herbage Productivity and Its Quality

Zinc (Zn) deficiency in soils not only reduces the productivity of forage crops, but also results in inadequate dietary zinc intake for livestock. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of different rates and methods of applying ZnSO4 to both soil and foliage on the yield and quality of fodder maize grown in a sandy loam soil testing low in DTPA-extractable Zn. A 2-year field experiment was conducted with six treatments including control, foliar application of 0.3% ZnSO4 at 30 days after sowing (DAS) (F1), foliar application of 0.3% ZnSO4 at 30 and 40 DAS (F2), soil application of 16 kg ha−1 ZnSO4 (S16) and a combination of both soil and foliar ZnSO4 application (S16 + F1 and S16 + F2). Increase in green herbage yield by 25%, dry matter yield by 47% and Zn content by 79% was observed under S16 + F2 treatment over the control. Zinc application improved N, K, Cu and crude protein content of herbage significantly over the control. Thus, the study shows that significant improvement in growth parameters, herbage yield and quality of maize can be achieved with soil Zn application + two foliar sprays of ZnSO4 at 30 and 40 DAS, thereby ensuring availability of improved fodder Zn to the livestock.

Biochelates from Spent Coffee Grounds Increases Iron Levels in Dutch Cucumbers but Affects Their Antioxidant Capacity.

Spent coffee grounds (SCG) are a type of food waste and are produced in abundance around the world. However, their utilization as a soil organic amendment is challenging due to their phytotoxic effect. In the present work, the impact of agronomic biofortification on Dutch cucumbers was investigated using different chemically modified SCG and analyzing their effects on iron contents, their capacity for releasing antioxidants, and the production of short-chain fatty acids after in vitro digestion-fermentation. The results indicated variations in the iron contents and chemical compositions of cucumbers according to the treatment groups. Functionalized and activated hydrochar from SCG increased Fe levels in cucumbers. Although activated hydrochar obtained at 160 °C and functionalized with Fe showed the highest iron supply per serving, differences in antioxidant capacity and short-chain fatty acid production were observed between the groups. It is concluded that growing conditions and the presence of iron may significantly influence the contribution of these cucumbers to the dietary intake of nutrients and antioxidants, which could have important implications for human health and nutrition.

Zn Biofortification of Dutch Cucumbers with Chemically Modified Spent Coffee Grounds: Zn Enrichment and Nutritional Implications.

Spent coffee grounds (SCGs) are a food waste with a large generation around the world. However, their utilization as a soil organic amendment is difficult due to their phytotoxic effect. In the present work, the impact of agronomic biofortification on Dutch cucumbers was studied by using different chemically modified SCGs, analyzing their effects on Zn content, the release of antioxidant capacity and the production of short-chain fatty acids after in vitro digestion-fermentation. The results indicated variations in the Zn content and chemical composition of cucumbers according to the treatment groups. The functionalized with Zn and activated SCGs were able to increase Zn levels in cucumbers. Meanwhile, the activated hydrochar obtained at 160 °C and the activated and functionalized with Zn SCGs showed the highest Zn supply per serving. Differences in the antioxidant capacity and short-chain fatty acid production were observed between the groups. It is concluded that the growing conditions and the presence of Zn may significantly influence the contribution of these cucumbers to the dietary intake of nutrients and antioxidants, which could have important implications for human health and nutrition.

Foliar-Applied Lithium And Its Effect On Morpho-Physiological Behavior And The Elemental Composition Of Lettuce

ABSTRACT Lithium (Li) intake is insufficient in many countries of the world. Low dietary intake of Li is associated with many psycho-behavioral disorders (e.g., increased suicide and homicide rates, aggressive behaviors, unipolar/bipolar disorders, and acute mania). Agronomic biofortification is a good strategy to increase Li intake in the human diet. This study aims to evaluate the effect of Li foliar application on the biofortification of two lettuce cultivars, as well as its influence on morpho-physiological characteristics and elemental composition. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design in a 2 × 5 factorial scheme with four replicates. Two curly lettuce cultivars (SVR 2005 and Solaris) were treated with five levels of Li (0, 16, 32, 48, and 64 g ha−1) applied via foliar under semi-controlled conditions. Both cultivars showed higher Li content and accumulation with the application of 64 g ha−1of Li. For the Solaris cultivar, the supply of 37 g ha−1of Li guarantees the consumption of approximately 30% of the daily Li recommendation. The morpho-physiological characteristics of the Solaris and SVR 2005 cultivars presented positive results with the application of between 20 and 41 g ha−1of Li. The content of potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) was altered by the foliar application of Li. The results obtained in this study show that the application of Li via leaves, under semi-controlled conditions, is an efficient strategy to biofortify lettuce and provide Li in the human diet. However, attention must be paid to the contents of macro and micronutrients in lettuce.

Advances in Genetic Enhancement of Nutritional Quality of Tropical Maize in West and Central Africa

Micronutrient deficiencies are pervasive in the diets of millions of people in developing countries, calling for effective mitigation measures. The development of biofortified cultivars through breeding holds promise for sustainable and affordable solutions to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Breeding efforts in the past decade have resulted in dozens of biofortified open-pollinated varieties and hybrids adapted to diverse agroecological zones. Advances in genomics and molecular tools enabled rapid identification of maize cultivars enriched with essential micronutrients such as pro vitamin A (PVA), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn). Leveraging Multi-omics-driven discovery of the genetic factors underlying the vast array of nutritional traits is paramount to mainstreaming breeding for quality traits in the product profile. Molecular breeding schemes, and integrating emerging Omics tools at every stage of the breeding pipeline, are vital to enhancing genetic gain. The recent momentum in elucidating the metabolism of micronutrients should be expanded to novel breeding targets as well as to the simultaneous enhancement of nutritional qualities while curtailing anti-nutritional factors in staple food crops. Harnessing new technologies to establish comprehensive and integrated breeding approaches involving nutrigenomics, genome editing, and agronomic biofortification is crucial in tackling nutritional insecurity. This review highlights the prospect of integrating modern tools in hastening the genetic improvement of nutritionally enriched maize.

Improving the yield and nutritional quality of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) in the rainforest agro-ecological zone of southeast Nigeria through agronomic biofortification with micronutrients

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is an important staple crop, especially for resource-poor populations. Cassava-based diets are rich in calories but grossly deficient in essential mineral elements. A field study in southeastern Nigeria aimed at increasing yields and concentrations of bioavailable mineral elements in a β-carotene cassava variety, UMUCASS 38 (TMS 01/1371), through agronomic biofortification. A randomized complete block design experiment in triplicate, with foliar application of Zn (3.0 kg ha−1 Zn as ZnSO4), I (4.0 kg ha−1 I as KI), Se (0.25 kg ha−1 Se as Na2SeO3) and Zn + Se + I in combination at vegetative, tuber initiation and bulking stages of cassava. Results indicated neither phytotoxicity nor altered physical and chemical soil properties. Application of Zn or Zn + Se + I at the vegetative stage significantly increased cassava tuber yields. More Zn, Se, and I accumulated in fresh and processed cassava tuber products (gari, lafun), especially when Zn + Se + I was applied at tuber initiation stage. The combined application of Zn + Se + I consistently outperformed sole applications indicating a synergistic interaction effect between the three elements. It is concluded that in the Zn-deficient soils of southeast Nigeria, yield of cassava root tubers can be significantly increased by foliar application of Zn-containing fertilizer at the vegetative stage, but for optimal accumulation of elemental Zn, Se, and I, a combined Zn + Se + I fertilizer be applied at the tuber initiation stage.

Potato Biofortification: A Systematic Literature Review on Biotechnological Innovations of Potato for Enhanced Nutrition

Potato biofortification is a comprehensive approach aimed at enhancing the nutritional content of potatoes, addressing widespread nutrient deficiencies and contributing to global food security. This systematic review examines the existing literature on various aspects of potato biofortification, encompassing genetic, agronomic, and biotechnological strategies. The review highlights the nutritional significance of potatoes, emphasizing their role as a staple food in many regions. Genetic approaches to biofortification involve the identification and use of natural variations in potato germplasm to develop varieties with elevated levels of essential nutrients. This includes targeting key micronutrients, such as iron, zinc, and vitamins, through traditional breeding methods. The review explores the genetic diversity within potato germplasm and the potential for breeding programs to develop nutrient-rich varieties. Agronomic practices play a crucial role in potato biofortification, with studies demonstrating the impact of tuber priming and the application of mineral fertilizers on nutrient concentrations in potatoes. The review delves into the intricacies of agronomic biofortification, emphasizing the importance of precise dosages and timing for optimal results. Biotechnological tools, including transgenic and non-transgenic approaches, are discussed in the context of potato biofortification. The review evaluates the efficiency and ethical considerations associated with the development of biofortified transgenic potatoes and emphasizes the significance of non-transgenic approaches in addressing consumer concerns and regulatory barriers. Overall, this systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of potato biofortification research. It synthesizes findings from diverse studies, offering insights into the potential of biofortified potatoes to address hidden hunger and contribute to improved nutritional outcomes. This review also identifies knowledge gaps and areas for future research, guiding the direction of efforts to harness the full potential of potato biofortification for global food and nutrition security.

Agronomic biofortification of Eruca sativa L. with iron in nutrient film technique hydroponic cultivation

The global need for greater production of biofortified foods has increased especially in the case of hidden hunger. The agronomic biofortification of arugula with iron has become a strategy to solve the low intake of this nutrient in population. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the agronomic biofortification of two arugula cultivars in a hydroponic-NFT system, in two seasons (winter and summer), under the effect of different concentrations of iron in the nutrient solution. The experimental design was carried out in randomized blocks, in a factorial scheme with 4 concentrations of chelated iron (EDDHA) (1.8, 3.6, 5.4 and 7.2 g 1000 L-1) in the nutrient solution with fertilizers and 2 arugula cultivars (Astro and Roka), and four repetitions. The harvest was To carried out 25 days after transplanting (DAT) in winter, and in summer at 20 DAT. The agronomic analyzes were: plant diameter, number of leaves per plant, length and width of leaves, package height, fresh root mass and fresh shoot mass productivity in m², and iron content in shoots and roots. We found that the cultivation period influenced the plant's ability to accumulate iron. In summer, the faster metabolism of plants together with greater transpiration caused a faster daily saturation of Fe content by the roots. The plants showed an intense green color, with an increase in the iron concentration in the nutrient solution of both cultivars. We concluded that agronomic biofortification of arugula is possible in both cultivars. We observed that a concentration of 3.6 mg 1000L-1 of iron (iron content 9.70% above control) in winter is suitable for Astro. For cv.Roka, we indicated a concentration of 7.2 mg 1000 L-1 of iron (iron content 47.9% higher than the control), in summer. Both are recommended for consuming iron from plants for human nutrition.