Farmers Are Growing Biofortified Wheat, But Don't Know Why It Matters
Summary
Farmers in Kapilvastu and Rupandehi are growing zinc-rich wheat varieties such as Zinc Gahun 1, but most do not know the crop’s nutritional benefits. The article argues that without awareness, market incentives, and extension messaging, Nepal’s biofortified wheat may fail to deliver its promised health impact.
Key Points
- Zinc Gahun 1 and other biofortified wheat varieties were released in Nepal to address iron and zinc deficiencies, but farmers often do not know they are growing nutrient-rich seed.
- Most adopters say they planted the wheat for higher yields, while millers and buyers do not pay a premium for its nutritional value.
- Only 45.3 percent of surveyed farmers said they would definitely grow Zinc Gahun again, raising concerns about long-term adoption.
- The article says Nepal needs awareness campaigns and extension support similar to Pakistan and Malawi to make biofortified crops effective.
