food-security
Food security is the reliable access to sufficient, affordable, and nutritious food for populations. Plant science is critical to achieving food security through research on crop development, breeding for improved yields and nutritional content, and creating resilient varieties that can withstand environmental challenges. By advancing plant biology, researchers help ensure sustainable food production systems capable of feeding growing global populations.
open_in_new WikipediaPubMed · 2026-02-15
Orange-fleshed sweet potato is a nutrient-rich crop containing high levels of β-carotene and other beneficial compounds that can be incorporated into flour blends to boost vitamin A intake in staple foods across sub-Saharan Africa. Adoption is limited by processing challenges and low awareness, but promoting OFSP in composite flour represents a culturally appropriate, sustainable solution to vitamin A deficiency in the region.
OFSP is rich in β-carotene, vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and antioxidant compounds, making it a viable biofortified crop for addressing micronutrient deficiencies
Incorporating OFSP into composite flour formulations significantly improves nutritional quality, functional properties, and consumer acceptability of staple foods
Adoption barriers include processing challenges, low consumer awareness, and weak integration into formal food value chains in sub-Saharan Africa