Biofortification of Common Bean: Critical Analysis of Genetic and Agronomic Strategies as Viable Alternatives to Tackling Zinc Deficiency in Developing Countries

Annie Matumba (), Patson C. Nalivata, Elizabeth H. Bailey, Murray R. Lark, Martin R. Broadley, Louise E. Ander and Joseph G. Chimungu ()
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Annie Matumba: Crop and Soil Sciences Department, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, P.O. Box 219, Lilongwe, Malawi
Patson C. Nalivata: Crop and Soil Sciences Department, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, P.O. Box 219, Lilongwe, Malawi
Elizabeth H. Bailey: Division of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Harpenden AL5 2JQ, UK
Murray R. Lark: Division of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Harpenden AL5 2JQ, UK
Martin R. Broadley: Rothamsted Research, Harpenden AL5 2JQ, UK
Louise E. Ander: Inorganic Geochemistry Centre for Environmental Geochemistry, British Geological Survey, Keyworth, Nottingham NG12 5GG, UK
Joseph G. Chimungu: Crop and Soil Sciences Department, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, P.O. Box 219, Lilongwe, Malawi

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 18, 1-16

Abstract: Zinc (Zn) deficiency affects over 30% of the global population, with the highest burdens in developing countries reliant on cereal-based diets. As a major dietary staple in regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, common bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.) represents a promising vehicle for addressing hidden hunger. This review critically evaluates the efficacy of various strategies to enhance Zn concentration in common bean, ranging from agronomic to genetic manipulation, and proposes promising strategies for biofortifying common bean in developing countries that are resource- and technology-limited. Biofortification strategies include agronomic practices, conventional breeding, and genetic engineering, each with distinct strengths and limitations. Agronomic methods such as soil and foliar fertilization can rapidly increase micronutrient content, but they require recurrent costs and may not be sustainable for smallholders without subsidies. Genetic engineering, particularly transgenic approaches, can significantly boost Zn levels; however, regulatory hurdles, cost of production, and public acceptance remain significant obstacles to widespread adoption. Conventional breeding is secure and widely adopted, but is time-consuming and limited by genetic diversity, making it less precise and slower than genetic engineering. We argue for a context-specific and integrated biofortification framework that prioritizes agronomic interventions such as biofertilizer, seed priming, soil Zn application, and foliar Zn application as approaches for quick results. Moderate- to long-term progress towards a biofortified common bean can be achieved using conventional breeding methods by selecting for local germplasm that accumulates higher Zn amounts in grain. On the other hand, genetic engineering is best for rapid, targeted nutrient enhancement where genetic diversity is lacking, but faces regulatory and acceptance challenges. We recommend that policymakers prioritize frameworks that harmonize these approaches, improve communication and education regarding the benefits of biofortified crop produce, subsidize and strengthen biofortified seed systems, and promote soil health initiatives.

Keywords: hidden hunger; agronomic biofortification; genetic biofortification; human health (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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