Crop biofortification for global food security: advances in genetic engineering and biotechnological approaches.

Micronutrient deficiencies, affecting over two billion people worldwide, pose significant health challenges. Recent advancements in biofortification and genetic engineering have shown considerable promise in enhancing the nutritional content of staple crops, thereby improving global nutrition and health outcomes. Biofortification, the process of increasing the nutrient content of crops through conventional breeding techniques and genetic engineering, has expanded the possibilities by enabling precise modifications to enhance nutrient profiles. These technologies have led to crops with increased levels of pigments, iron, zinc, vitamin A, and other critical micronutrients. Despite the potential benefits, several challenges hinder the widespread adoption of biofortified and genetically engineered crops. Regulatory hurdles, consumer acceptance, and socioeconomic factors continue to be significant barriers. Additionally, the long-term environmental impacts and ethical considerations of genetic modifications continue to spark debate. Continued research and collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders are essential to overcome these challenges. This review reports the current state of biofortification through genetic engineering, while also addressing the barriers to its adoption. These plant-based solutions can play an essential role in advancing global food security and improving public health.