Conventionally-bred biofortified crops are improving the health of millions globally but will eventually be forced to rely on GM technology. Will activists allow such a move, or will millions in poverty suffer? WPI recently noted Zimbabwe’s intention to produce 40,000 MT of biofortified maize in 2017 (see Ag Perspectives, 8 November 2016). This variety will account for approximately 10 percent of the country’s maize production as a result of the government’s strategy. It differs from traditional white maize as it contains higher levels of vitamin A to help address the deficiency of that vitamin, which can impair both the brain and immune system and affects nearly one in five children under age 5 in Zimbabwe. Vitamin A b...

TAGS – Feed Grains, Europe, Middle East & Africa, North America