Micronutrient Biofortification in Rice for Better Quality

Abstract

Micronutrient enhancement via biofortification is the only tool to reduce malnutrition of rice. The nutritional value of rice, especially iron, zinc, and selenium are usually low in many consuming communities. The aromatic rice cultivars have consistently higher concentration of iron and zinc in grain than the non-aromatic types. Zinc has multiple roles in the human body including the efficient functioning of cellular metabolic activities and stimulation of the immune system. Selenium is an essential element for human health but its intake is low. Accordingly, biofortified rice with this trace element can be prophylactic to consumers. Micronutrient deficiencies, especially those raised from selenium, zinc, and iron, pose serious human health problems for more than 2 billion people worldwide.