Biofortified crops to help combat climate-induced malnutrition in Pakistan: experts

Pakistan has achieved a significant milestone in its agricultural sector, harvesting 15 million metric tons of biofortified, zinc-enriched wheat earlier this year. Now available in markets across the country, this substantial produce is expected to address widespread zinc deficiencies affecting millions of Pakistanis, particularly children and women, officials and experts said.

The zinc-enriched wheat variety Akbar 2019 was planted on approximately 3.78 million hectares during the 2023-2024 season. Developed in collaboration with HarvestPlus and the Wheat Research Institute at Ayub Agriculture Research Institute in Faisalabad, this biofortified crop offers superior nutritional value and disease resistance, making it a transformative step for Pakistan’s agricultural landscape.

“Strategic investment in Early Generation Seed (EGS) production facilitated the rapid scaling-up of this zinc-enriched wheat variety. Akbar 2019 was cultivated on nearly 42% of Pakistan's wheat cropping area during the 2023-24 season,” said Dr Javed Ahmad, director at the Wheat Research Institute, Faisalabad.

“This achievement reflects over a decade of collaboration with HarvestPlus. Akbar 2019 is not only more drought-tolerant than conventional wheat but also addresses widespread zinc deficiencies prevalent in Pakistan.”

Zinc plays a vital role in immune function, growth, and development, with deficiencies linked to stunted growth in children, compromised immune systems, and increased susceptibility to infections.

Pakistan has long struggled with zinc deficiency, particularly in rural communities where access to nutritious food is limited. The introduction of zinc-enriched wheat is expected to help mitigate these health challenges by providing a staple food with added nutritional benefits.

“Akbar 2019’s success isn’t just about its yield—it’s about improving the health of millions suffering from zinc deficiency,” noted Dr Ahmad. “By bringing this wheat to market, we’re ensuring food security while addressing a critical public health issue.”

Farmers and policymakers have welcomed the introduction of biofortified wheat, praising Akbar 2019 for its resilience, better disease resistance, and higher yields compared to conventional varieties.

The success of Akbar 2019 coincides with increasing climate challenges facing Pakistani agriculture, such as unpredictable weather patterns, floods, and rising temperatures.

“Akbar 2019 wasn’t just developed for its nutritional benefits but also for its ability to withstand climate-related challenges,” said Yaqub Mujahid, country manager at HarvestPlus in Pakistan. “The zinc-enriched wheat is climate-resilient, and this year’s bumper harvest demonstrates that it can thrive in challenging conditions. It offers both economic and nutritional benefits to farmers.”

HarvestPlus played a pivotal role in developing and scaling Akbar 2019. Working with research institutes, seed companies, and farmers, the organization ensured the rapid adoption of this biofortified variety.

Over 175,000 metric tons of certified and approved Akbar 2019 seed were planted during the 2023-24 cropping season, with additional contributions from farm-saved seed.

Micronutrient testing, early-generation seed production, and capacity-building initiatives have further contributed to the success of this biofortified crop. Over 130 seed companies participated in distributing Akbar 2019 seeds, ensuring availability even in remote farming communities.

Public and private sector partnerships, including the Punjab government's seed subsidy programs, have been key in promoting the adoption of biofortified crops like Akbar 2019.

This year’s harvest underscores the importance of agricultural innovation to improve both food security and nutrition in Pakistan.

“The rapid adoption of Akbar 2019 shows what can be achieved when innovation, collaboration, and advocacy come together,” added Dr. Ahmad. “We’re now providing nutritious crops that meet the dietary needs of millions while building resilience in our food systems.”

With 15 million metric tons of zinc-enriched wheat now available in the market, Pakistan is poised to make significant progress in addressing zinc deficiency and improving public health. Offered at affordable prices, this wheat provides an essential source of nutrition for millions of families, especially in rural areas where access to nutritious foods remains limited.

As Pakistan grapples with the dual challenges of climate change and malnutrition, biofortified crops like Akbar 2019 offer a promising solution for improving food security and nutritional outcomes for future generations.

“The impact of Akbar 2019 goes beyond the field,” concluded Yaqub Mujahid. “It’s about nourishing communities and ensuring a healthier future for Pakistan.”