Biofortification of Grain and Vegetable Crops

Biofortification of Grain and Vegetable Crops

Author: Muhammad Tehseen Azhar

Publisher: Elsevier

Published: 2023-11-28

Total Pages: 360

ISBN-13: 0323972144

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Biofortification of Grain and Vegetable Crops: Molecular and Breeding Approaches is a comprehensive overview of important food crops whose vitamin and mineral enhancement can contribute significantly to improved food and nutrition security. Providing the latest information on crops including cereals, oilseeds, legumes and vegetables, this book provides details of agronomic and molecular resources for enhanced mineral production. Each chapter focuses on a specific food crop and the unique opportunities offered by each through breeding practices. This will be a valuable resource for researchers, academics and those in industry who are exploring biotechnological approaches as a powerful tool to combat malnutrition. Presents the potential of a variety of food crops for increased bioavailability of micronutrients Enhances our understanding of agronomic and molecular mechanisms of biofortification Provides insights to mitigate hidden hunger


Book Synopsis Biofortification of Grain and Vegetable Crops by : Muhammad Tehseen Azhar

Download or read book Biofortification of Grain and Vegetable Crops written by Muhammad Tehseen Azhar and published by Elsevier. This book was released on 2023-11-28 with total page 360 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Biofortification of Grain and Vegetable Crops: Molecular and Breeding Approaches is a comprehensive overview of important food crops whose vitamin and mineral enhancement can contribute significantly to improved food and nutrition security. Providing the latest information on crops including cereals, oilseeds, legumes and vegetables, this book provides details of agronomic and molecular resources for enhanced mineral production. Each chapter focuses on a specific food crop and the unique opportunities offered by each through breeding practices. This will be a valuable resource for researchers, academics and those in industry who are exploring biotechnological approaches as a powerful tool to combat malnutrition. Presents the potential of a variety of food crops for increased bioavailability of micronutrients Enhances our understanding of agronomic and molecular mechanisms of biofortification Provides insights to mitigate hidden hunger


Selenium in plants

Selenium in plants

Author: Elizabeth A.H. Pilon-Smits

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2017-05-10

Total Pages: 324

ISBN-13: 3319562495

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This book covers many facets of plant selenium (Se) accumulation: molecular genetics, biochemistry, physiology, and ecological and evolutionary aspects. Broader impacts and applications of plant Se accumulation also receive attention. Plant Se accumulation is very relevant for environmental and human health. Selenium is both essential at low levels and toxic at high levels, and both Se deficiency and toxicity are problems worldwide. Selenium can positively affect crop productivity and nutritional value. Plants may also be used to clean up excess environmental Se. Selenium in plants has profound ecological impact, and likely contributes to Se movement in ecosystems and global Se cycling.


Book Synopsis Selenium in plants by : Elizabeth A.H. Pilon-Smits

Download or read book Selenium in plants written by Elizabeth A.H. Pilon-Smits and published by Springer. This book was released on 2017-05-10 with total page 324 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book covers many facets of plant selenium (Se) accumulation: molecular genetics, biochemistry, physiology, and ecological and evolutionary aspects. Broader impacts and applications of plant Se accumulation also receive attention. Plant Se accumulation is very relevant for environmental and human health. Selenium is both essential at low levels and toxic at high levels, and both Se deficiency and toxicity are problems worldwide. Selenium can positively affect crop productivity and nutritional value. Plants may also be used to clean up excess environmental Se. Selenium in plants has profound ecological impact, and likely contributes to Se movement in ecosystems and global Se cycling.


Wheat and Barley Grain Biofortification

Wheat and Barley Grain Biofortification

Author: Om Prakash Gupta

Publisher: Woodhead Publishing

Published: 2020-05-19

Total Pages: 366

ISBN-13: 0128184450

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Wheat and Barley Grain Biofortification addresses topics associated with the alleviation of malnutrition in globally diverse populations via wheat and barley biofortification. The book synthesizes the current trends of malnutrition across the globe, the need for wheat and barley nutritional enhancement and how agronomic, microbial and molecular understanding of biofortification can help in devising significant approaches and strategies. In addition, it includes discussions on potential genetic variability available and their efficient utilization in wheat and barley for molecular breeding for nutrients, challenges and opportunities for bioavailability, and technical advancement for analysis of bioavailability. Addresses the need for wheat and barley biofortification to address global nutrition demands Places emphasis on the current agronomic and molecular understanding of biofortification Discusses the potential utilization of genetic variability Highlights the economics of biofortification over fortification technology


Book Synopsis Wheat and Barley Grain Biofortification by : Om Prakash Gupta

Download or read book Wheat and Barley Grain Biofortification written by Om Prakash Gupta and published by Woodhead Publishing. This book was released on 2020-05-19 with total page 366 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Wheat and Barley Grain Biofortification addresses topics associated with the alleviation of malnutrition in globally diverse populations via wheat and barley biofortification. The book synthesizes the current trends of malnutrition across the globe, the need for wheat and barley nutritional enhancement and how agronomic, microbial and molecular understanding of biofortification can help in devising significant approaches and strategies. In addition, it includes discussions on potential genetic variability available and their efficient utilization in wheat and barley for molecular breeding for nutrients, challenges and opportunities for bioavailability, and technical advancement for analysis of bioavailability. Addresses the need for wheat and barley biofortification to address global nutrition demands Places emphasis on the current agronomic and molecular understanding of biofortification Discusses the potential utilization of genetic variability Highlights the economics of biofortification over fortification technology


Vitamins and Minerals Biofortification of Edible Plants

Vitamins and Minerals Biofortification of Edible Plants

Author: Noureddine Benkeblia

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons

Published: 2020-05-26

Total Pages: 255

ISBN-13: 1119511119

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A Detailed Reference on How Modern Biotechnology is using the Biofortification of Crops to Improve the Vitamin and Mineral Content of Edible Plants In this reference, Vitamins and Minerals Bio-Fortification of Edible Plants, authors cover new territory on phytonutrients, focusing on the enhancement and modification of edible crops. This book presents techniques and research findings from modern biotechnology to educate readers on the newest tools and research in the field. Readers will learn how groundbreaking scientific advances have contributed to the nutritional content of edible plants and crops for animals and humans. Inside, readers will find comprehensive information on new concepts of biofortification, including but not limited to: ● Modern biotechnology and its uses for improving the vitamin and mineral content of edible plants ● Potential minerals and vitamins that can be targeted and implemented in agriculture ● Ways of enhancing the nutritional contents of edible plants to address nutritional deficiencies and improve livestock ● Methods of identifying plants that can be used to heal or prevent disease and illness While many books cover the phytonutrients of crops, this reference book reports on methodologies, techniques, and environmental changes used to enhance and improve agricultural products. It is one of the first to provide information on using modern biotechnologies to modify crops with the goal of creating health benefits.


Book Synopsis Vitamins and Minerals Biofortification of Edible Plants by : Noureddine Benkeblia

Download or read book Vitamins and Minerals Biofortification of Edible Plants written by Noureddine Benkeblia and published by John Wiley & Sons. This book was released on 2020-05-26 with total page 255 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: A Detailed Reference on How Modern Biotechnology is using the Biofortification of Crops to Improve the Vitamin and Mineral Content of Edible Plants In this reference, Vitamins and Minerals Bio-Fortification of Edible Plants, authors cover new territory on phytonutrients, focusing on the enhancement and modification of edible crops. This book presents techniques and research findings from modern biotechnology to educate readers on the newest tools and research in the field. Readers will learn how groundbreaking scientific advances have contributed to the nutritional content of edible plants and crops for animals and humans. Inside, readers will find comprehensive information on new concepts of biofortification, including but not limited to: ● Modern biotechnology and its uses for improving the vitamin and mineral content of edible plants ● Potential minerals and vitamins that can be targeted and implemented in agriculture ● Ways of enhancing the nutritional contents of edible plants to address nutritional deficiencies and improve livestock ● Methods of identifying plants that can be used to heal or prevent disease and illness While many books cover the phytonutrients of crops, this reference book reports on methodologies, techniques, and environmental changes used to enhance and improve agricultural products. It is one of the first to provide information on using modern biotechnologies to modify crops with the goal of creating health benefits.


Biofortification of Food Crops

Biofortification of Food Crops

Author: Ummed Singh

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2016-01-22

Total Pages: 492

ISBN-13: 8132227166

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The chapters presented in this book ‘Biofortification of Food Crops’ depict how agricultural technological interventions have true role in alleviating malnutrition. This book highlights the role of multidisciplinary approaches to cope up with the challenges of micronutrient malnutrition or hidden hunger which is an alarming public health issue in most parts of the world including India. In this endeavour, different biofortification approaches such as agronomic (or ferti-fortification), breeding, biotechnological, physiological, microbial etc. has fulfilled their different mandates of nutrient enrichment of food crops including cereals and pulses. The contents of the book proves that biofortified plants have adequate potential to nourish nutrient depleted soils, help increase crop productivity and provide nutritional benefits to plants, humans and livestock. The content and quality of information presented in this book will definitely provide multiple novel ideas of advance techniques and will stimulate innovative thoughts and directions amongst researchers and policy makers in the field of biofortification. In addition, the contributions presented in the book will be a good source of background knowledge and technical know-how to educate the readers about biofortification. The authors hope that the book entitled “Biofortification of Food Crops” would provide a suitable platform in our collective efforts for an appropriate dialogue among the scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs, policy makers and farmers in reducing the budding issues of malnutrition through novel approaches and means.


Book Synopsis Biofortification of Food Crops by : Ummed Singh

Download or read book Biofortification of Food Crops written by Ummed Singh and published by Springer. This book was released on 2016-01-22 with total page 492 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The chapters presented in this book ‘Biofortification of Food Crops’ depict how agricultural technological interventions have true role in alleviating malnutrition. This book highlights the role of multidisciplinary approaches to cope up with the challenges of micronutrient malnutrition or hidden hunger which is an alarming public health issue in most parts of the world including India. In this endeavour, different biofortification approaches such as agronomic (or ferti-fortification), breeding, biotechnological, physiological, microbial etc. has fulfilled their different mandates of nutrient enrichment of food crops including cereals and pulses. The contents of the book proves that biofortified plants have adequate potential to nourish nutrient depleted soils, help increase crop productivity and provide nutritional benefits to plants, humans and livestock. The content and quality of information presented in this book will definitely provide multiple novel ideas of advance techniques and will stimulate innovative thoughts and directions amongst researchers and policy makers in the field of biofortification. In addition, the contributions presented in the book will be a good source of background knowledge and technical know-how to educate the readers about biofortification. The authors hope that the book entitled “Biofortification of Food Crops” would provide a suitable platform in our collective efforts for an appropriate dialogue among the scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs, policy makers and farmers in reducing the budding issues of malnutrition through novel approaches and means.


Advances in Agri-Food Biotechnology

Advances in Agri-Food Biotechnology

Author: Tilak Raj Sharma

Publisher: Springer Nature

Published: 2020-08-31

Total Pages: 451

ISBN-13: 9811528748

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This book presents biotechnological advances and approaches to improving the nutritional value of agri-foods. The respective chapters explore how biotechnology is being used to enhance food production, nutritional quality, food safety and food packaging, and to address postharvest issues. Written and prepared by eminent scientists working in the field of food biotechnology, the book offers authentic, reliable and detailed information on technological advances, fundamental principles, and the applications of recent innovations. Accordingly, it offers a valuable guide for researchers, as well as undergraduate and graduate students in the fields of biotechnology, agriculture and food technology.


Book Synopsis Advances in Agri-Food Biotechnology by : Tilak Raj Sharma

Download or read book Advances in Agri-Food Biotechnology written by Tilak Raj Sharma and published by Springer Nature. This book was released on 2020-08-31 with total page 451 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book presents biotechnological advances and approaches to improving the nutritional value of agri-foods. The respective chapters explore how biotechnology is being used to enhance food production, nutritional quality, food safety and food packaging, and to address postharvest issues. Written and prepared by eminent scientists working in the field of food biotechnology, the book offers authentic, reliable and detailed information on technological advances, fundamental principles, and the applications of recent innovations. Accordingly, it offers a valuable guide for researchers, as well as undergraduate and graduate students in the fields of biotechnology, agriculture and food technology.


Biofortification of Staple Crops

Biofortification of Staple Crops

Author: Shiv Kumar

Publisher: Springer Nature

Published: 2022-03-09

Total Pages: 555

ISBN-13: 9811632804

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This edited book brings together comprehensive information on various aspects of the biofortification of staple crops. It addresses the present status of food and nutritional security and highlights the importance of micronutrients in human health, a historical account of biofortification, current approaches and challenges, crop-specific biofortification efforts and various breeding approaches, including conventional, and genomics enabled improvement. It also explains the efficacy of biofortification, bioavailability, and future thrust. It is an inclusive source of information on different aspects of micronutrients in crops of global importance. Malnutrition is a serious global issue, with millions of people being undernourished, several suffering from micronutrient deficiencies, and the adult population struggling with obesity. Despite significant economic progress, South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa are still home to an undernourished population. Nutrition-related health problems are related to hidden hunger and are widespread in the developing world. Women and preschool children are more vulnerable. Even though global food production has increased manifolds, estimates indicate that over 60% of the world’s population is deficient in essential micronutrients such as iron, zinc, iodine, and selenium, often causing health problems and developmental delays. Linking agricultural production with human nutrition and health is crucial for ensuring nutrition security. Much research has been carried out to assess genetic diversity related to micro-nutrients in staple crops, their bioavailability, and the efficacy of biofortified germplasm. Biofortified varieties developed in different crops through conventional breeding are being up-scaled for reducing the micronutrient deficiencies in other countries. This book is a ready reference for researchers, academicians, extension personnel, policymakers, students, and value chain stakeholders engaged in agriculture, nutrition, and health sectors promoting nutrition-sensitive diets.


Book Synopsis Biofortification of Staple Crops by : Shiv Kumar

Download or read book Biofortification of Staple Crops written by Shiv Kumar and published by Springer Nature. This book was released on 2022-03-09 with total page 555 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This edited book brings together comprehensive information on various aspects of the biofortification of staple crops. It addresses the present status of food and nutritional security and highlights the importance of micronutrients in human health, a historical account of biofortification, current approaches and challenges, crop-specific biofortification efforts and various breeding approaches, including conventional, and genomics enabled improvement. It also explains the efficacy of biofortification, bioavailability, and future thrust. It is an inclusive source of information on different aspects of micronutrients in crops of global importance. Malnutrition is a serious global issue, with millions of people being undernourished, several suffering from micronutrient deficiencies, and the adult population struggling with obesity. Despite significant economic progress, South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa are still home to an undernourished population. Nutrition-related health problems are related to hidden hunger and are widespread in the developing world. Women and preschool children are more vulnerable. Even though global food production has increased manifolds, estimates indicate that over 60% of the world’s population is deficient in essential micronutrients such as iron, zinc, iodine, and selenium, often causing health problems and developmental delays. Linking agricultural production with human nutrition and health is crucial for ensuring nutrition security. Much research has been carried out to assess genetic diversity related to micro-nutrients in staple crops, their bioavailability, and the efficacy of biofortified germplasm. Biofortified varieties developed in different crops through conventional breeding are being up-scaled for reducing the micronutrient deficiencies in other countries. This book is a ready reference for researchers, academicians, extension personnel, policymakers, students, and value chain stakeholders engaged in agriculture, nutrition, and health sectors promoting nutrition-sensitive diets.


Food Fortification in a Globalized World

Food Fortification in a Globalized World

Author: M.G.Venkatesh Mannar

Publisher: Academic Press

Published: 2018-06-29

Total Pages: 414

ISBN-13: 0128028971

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Food Fortification in a Globalized World outlines experiences over the past 50 years—and future potential—for the application of food fortification across a variety of foods in the industrialized and developing world. The book captures recent science and applications trends in fortification, including emerging areas such as biofortification, nutraceuticals and new nutrient intake recommendations, standards, policy and regulation. The book proposes a balanced and effective food fortification strategy for nations to adopt. In covering the most technical scientific details in an approachable style, this work is accessible to a range of practitioners in industry, government, NGOs, academia and research. Food fortification has become an increasingly significant strategy to address gaps in micronutrient intakes in populations with measurable impact in both industrialized and developing countries. While the positive impacts are well recognized there are new concerns in some countries that excessive fortification of foods, outdated nutritional labeling rules and misleading marketing tactics used by food manufacturers may result in young children consuming harmful amounts of some vitamins and minerals. Presents the latest science on fortification for the prevention of micronutrient deficiencies Includes emerging areas such as biofortification, nutraceuticals and new nutrient intake recommendations, standards, regulations, practices and policies from around the world Summarizes evidence of application of food fortification and measured impact on public health Discusses how public policy impacts fortification of foods and nutritional deficiencies Considers the complex economics of and market for fortified foods


Book Synopsis Food Fortification in a Globalized World by : M.G.Venkatesh Mannar

Download or read book Food Fortification in a Globalized World written by M.G.Venkatesh Mannar and published by Academic Press. This book was released on 2018-06-29 with total page 414 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Food Fortification in a Globalized World outlines experiences over the past 50 years—and future potential—for the application of food fortification across a variety of foods in the industrialized and developing world. The book captures recent science and applications trends in fortification, including emerging areas such as biofortification, nutraceuticals and new nutrient intake recommendations, standards, policy and regulation. The book proposes a balanced and effective food fortification strategy for nations to adopt. In covering the most technical scientific details in an approachable style, this work is accessible to a range of practitioners in industry, government, NGOs, academia and research. Food fortification has become an increasingly significant strategy to address gaps in micronutrient intakes in populations with measurable impact in both industrialized and developing countries. While the positive impacts are well recognized there are new concerns in some countries that excessive fortification of foods, outdated nutritional labeling rules and misleading marketing tactics used by food manufacturers may result in young children consuming harmful amounts of some vitamins and minerals. Presents the latest science on fortification for the prevention of micronutrient deficiencies Includes emerging areas such as biofortification, nutraceuticals and new nutrient intake recommendations, standards, regulations, practices and policies from around the world Summarizes evidence of application of food fortification and measured impact on public health Discusses how public policy impacts fortification of foods and nutritional deficiencies Considers the complex economics of and market for fortified foods


Biotechnologies of Crop Improvement, Volume 2

Biotechnologies of Crop Improvement, Volume 2

Author: Satbir Singh Gosal

Publisher: Springer

Published: 2018-07-09

Total Pages: 485

ISBN-13: 331990650X

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During the past 15 years, cellular and molecular approaches have emerged as valuable adjuncts to supplement and complement conventional breeding methods for a wide variety of crop plants. Biotechnology increasingly plays a role in the creation, conservation, characterization and utilization of genetic variability for germplasm enhancement. For instance, anther/microspore culture, somaclonal variation, embryo culture and somatic hybridization are being exploited for obtaining incremental improvement in the existing cultivars. In addition, genes that confer insect- and disease-resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, herbicide tolerance and quality traits have been isolated and re-introduced into otherwise sensitive or susceptible species by a variety of transgenic techniques. Together these transformative methodologies grant access to a greater repertoire of genetic diversity as the gene(s) may come from viruses, bacteria, fungi, insects, animals, human beings, unrelated plants or even be artificially derived. Remarkable achievements have been made in the production, characterization, field evaluation and commercialization of transgenic crop varieties worldwide. Likewise, significant advances have been made towards increasing crop yields, improving nutritional quality, enabling crops to be raised under adverse conditions and developing resistance to pests and diseases for sustaining global food and nutritional security. The overarching purpose of this 3-volume work is to summarize the history of crop improvement from a technological perspective but to do so with a forward outlook on further advancement and adaptability to a changing world. Our carefully chosen “case studies of important plant crops” intend to serve a diverse spectrum of audience looking for the right tools to tackle complicated local and global issues.


Book Synopsis Biotechnologies of Crop Improvement, Volume 2 by : Satbir Singh Gosal

Download or read book Biotechnologies of Crop Improvement, Volume 2 written by Satbir Singh Gosal and published by Springer. This book was released on 2018-07-09 with total page 485 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: During the past 15 years, cellular and molecular approaches have emerged as valuable adjuncts to supplement and complement conventional breeding methods for a wide variety of crop plants. Biotechnology increasingly plays a role in the creation, conservation, characterization and utilization of genetic variability for germplasm enhancement. For instance, anther/microspore culture, somaclonal variation, embryo culture and somatic hybridization are being exploited for obtaining incremental improvement in the existing cultivars. In addition, genes that confer insect- and disease-resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, herbicide tolerance and quality traits have been isolated and re-introduced into otherwise sensitive or susceptible species by a variety of transgenic techniques. Together these transformative methodologies grant access to a greater repertoire of genetic diversity as the gene(s) may come from viruses, bacteria, fungi, insects, animals, human beings, unrelated plants or even be artificially derived. Remarkable achievements have been made in the production, characterization, field evaluation and commercialization of transgenic crop varieties worldwide. Likewise, significant advances have been made towards increasing crop yields, improving nutritional quality, enabling crops to be raised under adverse conditions and developing resistance to pests and diseases for sustaining global food and nutritional security. The overarching purpose of this 3-volume work is to summarize the history of crop improvement from a technological perspective but to do so with a forward outlook on further advancement and adaptability to a changing world. Our carefully chosen “case studies of important plant crops” intend to serve a diverse spectrum of audience looking for the right tools to tackle complicated local and global issues.


Phytonutritional Improvement of Crops

Phytonutritional Improvement of Crops

Author: Noureddine Benkeblia

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons

Published: 2017-10-02

Total Pages: 549

ISBN-13: 1119079942

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An in-depth treatment of cutting-edge work being done internationally to develop new techniques in crop nutritional quality improvement Phytonutritional Improvement of Crops explores recent advances in biotechnological methods for the nutritional enrichment of food crops. Featuring contributions from an international group of experts in the field, it provides cutting-edge information on techniques of immense importance to academic, professional and commercial operations. World population is now estimated to be 7.5 billion people, with an annual growth rate of nearly 1.5%. Clearly, the need to enhance not only the quantity of food produced but its quality has never been greater, especially among less developed nations. Genetic manipulation offers the best prospect for achieving that goal. As many fruit crops provide proven health benefits, research efforts need to be focused on improving the nutritional qualities of fruits and vegetables through increased synthesis of lycopene and beta carotene, anthocyanins and some phenolics known to be strong antioxidants. Despite tremendous growth in the area occurring over the past several decades, the work has only just begun. This book represents an effort to address the urgent need to promote those efforts and to mobilise the tools of biotechnical and genetic engineering of the major food crops. Topics covered include: New applications of RNA-interference and virus induced gene silencing (VIGS) for nutritional genomics in crop plants Biotechnological techniques for enhancing carotenoid in crops and their implications for both human health and sustainable development Progress being made in the enrichment and metabolic profiling of diverse carotenoids in a range of fruit crops, including tomatoes, sweet potatoes and tropical fruits Biotechnologies for boosting the phytonutritional values of key crops, including grapes and sweet potatoes Recent progress in the development of transgenic rice engineered to massively accumulate flavonoids in-seed Phytonutritional Improvement of Crops is an important text/reference that belongs in all universities and research establishments where agriculture, horticulture, biological sciences, and food science and technology are studied, taught and applied.


Book Synopsis Phytonutritional Improvement of Crops by : Noureddine Benkeblia

Download or read book Phytonutritional Improvement of Crops written by Noureddine Benkeblia and published by John Wiley & Sons. This book was released on 2017-10-02 with total page 549 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: An in-depth treatment of cutting-edge work being done internationally to develop new techniques in crop nutritional quality improvement Phytonutritional Improvement of Crops explores recent advances in biotechnological methods for the nutritional enrichment of food crops. Featuring contributions from an international group of experts in the field, it provides cutting-edge information on techniques of immense importance to academic, professional and commercial operations. World population is now estimated to be 7.5 billion people, with an annual growth rate of nearly 1.5%. Clearly, the need to enhance not only the quantity of food produced but its quality has never been greater, especially among less developed nations. Genetic manipulation offers the best prospect for achieving that goal. As many fruit crops provide proven health benefits, research efforts need to be focused on improving the nutritional qualities of fruits and vegetables through increased synthesis of lycopene and beta carotene, anthocyanins and some phenolics known to be strong antioxidants. Despite tremendous growth in the area occurring over the past several decades, the work has only just begun. This book represents an effort to address the urgent need to promote those efforts and to mobilise the tools of biotechnical and genetic engineering of the major food crops. Topics covered include: New applications of RNA-interference and virus induced gene silencing (VIGS) for nutritional genomics in crop plants Biotechnological techniques for enhancing carotenoid in crops and their implications for both human health and sustainable development Progress being made in the enrichment and metabolic profiling of diverse carotenoids in a range of fruit crops, including tomatoes, sweet potatoes and tropical fruits Biotechnologies for boosting the phytonutritional values of key crops, including grapes and sweet potatoes Recent progress in the development of transgenic rice engineered to massively accumulate flavonoids in-seed Phytonutritional Improvement of Crops is an important text/reference that belongs in all universities and research establishments where agriculture, horticulture, biological sciences, and food science and technology are studied, taught and applied.