Agronomic biofortification with micronutrients: An efficient approach to increase nutritional quality in crops and combat hidden hunger

Micronutrient deficiencies, especially iron and zinc deficiencies, affect billions of people, causing stunted growth, weakened immunity and reduced cognitive ability, particularly in developing nations. Another risk to nutritional quality is a lack of diversification in the diet, such as for crops lacking mineral elements. The present review highlights the importance of biofortification to increase crop yield and as an agricultural solution to combat nutritional security. Various novel and targeted agronomic biofortification techniques have been explored with efforts to improve the nutrient concentrations of field crops, viz., cereals, pulses and oilseed crops. Agronomic biofortification enhances nutrient content in crops, addressing hidden hunger. Techniques, including soil application, foliar application, seed priming, and the use of biofertilizers and nanofertilizers, increase the iron content (5–57%) and zinc content (10–95%) in grains, supporting improved health. Biofortified crops contribute not only to improved nutrition, health and socioeconomic standing but also to higher yields and quality, strengthening food security. This study provides complete insight into the role of biofortification in increasing Zn and Fe contents in crops, thus revealing their roles in various physiological processes and combating Zn and Fe malnutrition in the human body. Despite advancements in biofortification research, many critical areas still need to be addressed to fulfil the primary goal of agronomic biofortification. Therefore, continued research is crucial for realizing the role of agronomic biofortification for improving malnutrition worldwide. • Micronutrient deficiencies restrict growth, immunity and condensed cognitive ability. • Biofortified crops contribute not only the nutritional health but also to the quality of food. • The review highlights the importance of biofortification to combat nutritional security. • Various approaches like biofertilizers and nanofertilizers can increase grain micronutrients.