biofortification
BY-oh-FOR-tih-fih-KAY-shun
/ˌbaɪoʊˌfɔːrtɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/
The process by which the nutritional quality of food crops is improved through agronomic practices, conventional plant breeding, or modern biotechnology.
Unlike 'fortification' (adding nutrients during processing), biofortification builds the nutrients into the plant as it grows.
The story behind the word. A modern scientific term combining 'bio' with 'fortification' (from the Latin 'fortis', meaning strong). It literally means 'making life stronger' from the inside out.
Word relationships
- biological enrichment: A more descriptive but less technical term for the same process.
- nutrient depletion: The loss of nutrients in soil or crops.
Commonly confused with
- fortification: Fortification happens in the factory; biofortification happens in the field.
Word family
- biofortify (verb): To increase the nutritional value of a crop during growth.
Collocations
- crop biofortification
- nutritional biofortification
- biofortification strategies
Example sentences
- "Biofortification of sweet potatoes with Vitamin A has significantly reduced blindness in several African regions." Global health initiative report.
- "Through biofortification, we can create 'Golden Rice' that provides essential micronutrients to impoverished populations." Agricultural science lecture.
Memory hook
A 'Fort' is strong; biofortification makes the 'bio' (plant) strong with vitamins. Stronger from the seed.
When not to use
Do not use for adding vitamins to cereal or milk after harvest.
Fun facts
- Iron-biofortified beans are currently being grown by over a million farmers in Rwanda.
Explore more words
fortified, fortify, nutritional, micronutrient, nutrient-dense, agronomy
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