Strategies and bibliometric analysis of legumes biofortification to address malnutrition

Planta. 2024 Sep 4;260(4):85. doi: 10.1007/s00425-024-04504-0.

Abstract

Biofortification of legumes using diverse techniques such as plant breeding, agronomic practices, genetic modification, and nano-technological approaches presents a sustainable strategy to address micronutrient deficiencies of underprivileged populations. The widespread issue of chronic malnutrition, commonly referred to as "hidden hunger," arises from the consumption of poor-quality food, leading to various health and cognitive impairments. Biofortified food crops have been a sustainable solution to address micronutrient deficiencies. This review highlights multiple biofortification techniques, such as plant breeding, agronomic practices, genetic modification, and nano-technological approaches, aimed at enhancing the nutrient content of commonly consumed crops. Emphasizing the biofortification of legumes, this review employs bibliometric analysis to examine research trends from 2000 to 2023. It identifies key authors, influential journals, contributing countries, publication trends, and prevalent keywords in this field. The review highlights the progress in developing biofortified crops and their potential to improve global nutrition and help underprivileged populations.

Keywords: Bibliometric analysis; Harvest plus; Iron; Malnutrition; Zinc.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bibliometrics*
  • Biofortification* / methods
  • Crops, Agricultural* / metabolism
  • Fabaceae* / metabolism
  • Food, Fortified
  • Humans
  • Malnutrition*
  • Micronutrients / analysis
  • Plant Breeding / methods

Substances

  • Micronutrients