STRENGTHENING GLOBAL NUTRITION THROUGH OILSEED CROP BIOFORTIFICATION

Abstract

Malnutrition, caused by deficiencies in essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, remains a pressing global public health issue. Biofortification—the enhancement of crop nutritional quality through genetic engineering, plant breeding, and agronomic practices—offers a sustainable, long-term solution to this challenge. Oilseed crops, including soybean, canola, sunflower, olive, safflower, and sesame, are vital to human diets due to their rich content of fats, proteins, and essential micronutrients. Biofortifying these crops holds significant potential to address deficiencies in iron, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins A, D, and E. Recent advances include biofortified canola varieties enriched with lysine, carotenoids, and omega-3 fatty acids, transgenic safflower with increased omega-9 content, and selenium-fortified olive oil. Innovative techniques such as nutrient priming and gene editing have enabled the development of transgenic cultivars with enhanced nutrient profiles, boosting both their nutritional value and associated health benefits. Implementing biofortification strategies in oilseed crops can significantly improve global nutrient intake and reduce malnutrition, particularly in low-income regions. Furthermore, integrating these strategies with precision agriculture and modern technological innovations can strengthen global food security and public health. Overall, biofortification represents a forward-looking, sustainable approach to ensuring a nutrient-rich food supply for future generations.