Agronomic biofortification, nourishing plants to nourish people: A review of strategies and results

Abstract

Agronomic biofortification is a key strategy to increase the micronutrient content of staple crops and ensure global food and nutritional security. This review aims to synthesize recent advances in the use of fertilization, microorganisms, and other technologies to enhance the concentration of micronutrients such as zinc, iron, selenium, and iodine in grains and vegetables, complemented by a bibliometric analysis of global research trends on this topic. The results of the bibliometric mapping show the evolution of scientific production, while the literature reviewed indicates that applying micronutrients to crops through foliar or soil fertilization, seed priming, and other responsible agricultural practices may enhance micronutrient availability in food without adversely affecting crop yield. However, the response to agronomic biofortification largely depends on the crop species, since crops such as potato and wheat differ in their capacity to absorb and translocate micronutrients, which requires adjusting the dose, timing of application, and the most suitable nutrient source for each species. In conclusion, agronomic biofortification is a viable alternative to help meet part of the nutritional requirements for micronutrients and thus contribute to combating malnutrition. Nonetheless, important knowledge gaps remain regarding the actual extent to which these micronutrients are utilized by humans, that is, their bioaccessibility and bioavailability, highlighting the need for further studies linking agricultural production with human nutrition.