Biofortification is a method of breeding crops to increase their nutritional value. It involves intentionally developing and selecting crops with higher levels of essential vitamins and minerals to address nutrient deficiencies in human populations. This process is achieved through traditional breeding techniques or genetic modification.
Option 1 correctly defines biofortification as a method of breeding crops to increase their nutritional value. It focuses on improving the nutritional content of crops, which can help address malnutrition and improve public health. This approach targets essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and proteins and aims to increase their levels in commonly consumed crops such as rice, maize, wheat, or beans.
Option 2 is incorrect because biofortification is not aimed at combating unwanted nutrients in plants. It focuses on increasing beneficial nutrients rather than eliminating undesirable ones.
Option 3 is incorrect because while biofortification enhances crops, it does not involve developing resistance to insect pests. Pest resistance is a separate breeding technique used to protect crops from pest damage.
Option 4 is also incorrect because although biofortification improves the nutritional value of crops, it is not specifically targeted towards developing resistance to diseases. Disease resistance is another breeding strategy used to protect plants from pathogens.
In conclusion, option 1 is the correct choice as it accurately describes biofortification as a method of