Bio-Fortification for Wheat: Enhancing Zinc and Iron Nutritional Quality to Combat Micro-Nutrient Deficiencies

Abstract

wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), a staple grain that contributes to global food security. However, common micro-nutrient shortages, especially in zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe), are frequently not addressed by its function as a staple. Nearly 2 billion individuals experience hidden hunger, which shows up as stunted growth, anemia, and weakened immunity system. With an emphasis on genetic, agronomic, and biotechnological methods, this review critically assesses developments in bio-fortification techniques to raise the Zn and Fe content of wheat grains. Wheat is a staple crop for billions, provides insufficient levels of bioavailable Fe and Zn, contributing to “hidden hunger” in developing regions. Soil conditions such as high pH further limit Fe and Zn uptake in wheat, Soil application of zinc and iron or folair application of zinc and iron should adopt in wheat cropping to Improve bio-fortification. Bio-fortification through Foliar spray, Soil application breeding based, approaches has emerged as a sustainable solution. all of which have identified key locally and functional genes regulating Fe and Zn uptake, transport, and storage. wheat bio-fortification is a cost-effective, scalable strategy to combat micronutrient malnutrition and promote food security. Multidisciplinary researchers working on wheat bio-fortification may find this article to be a useful resource, helping to improve present and future initiatives to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal of eradicating hunger.