Zinc biofortification: Strategy for improving yield and nutrition in fruits

Abstract

In the face of global malnutrition, biofortification of fruit crops is a promising technique to enhance nutritional quality. Micronutrient deficiencies and poor dietary quality affect many worldwide. Recent advancements in molecular biology expedite breeding processes to selectively enhance nutritional traits while preserving desirable agronomic characteristics. Integrating conventional breeding, molecular biology, agronomic practices, and post-harvest interventions, biofortification initiatives can improve nutritional quality, human health outcomes, and sustainable food systems. Agronomic interventions, such as sustainable soil management, optimized fertilization and tailored irrigation maximize nutrient uptake and assimilation, enhancing nutrient bioavailability and absorption. Agronomic biofortification is a feasible, cost-effective approach that ensures agricultural sustainability by reducing the need for external supplements and minimizing environmental harm. This review focuses on strategies employed in zinc (Zn) biofortification to enrich fruit crops.