Bangladesh faces a significant public health challenge: micronutrient deficiencies, including zinc deficiency, affect both children and adults. Zinc is crucial for immune function, growth, and cognitive development, but conventional rice varieties lack sufficient levels of this essential nutrient.

Millions of school children suffer the hidden consequences of malnutrition, including stunted growth and weakened immune systems. To combat this issue, HarvestPlus, HarvestPlus Solutions Bangladesh, and the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) have partnered under the Scaling of Biofortified Crop Production project to improve access to nutrient-dense crops.

This initiative aims to do so by distributing 93 metric tons of zinc rice seed to 31,000 producers across 25 subdistricts in the Rajshahi division. Effective public-private collaboration has enabled large-scale seed distribution, with DAE personnel actively involved in farmer selection, distribution, and documentation.

Priority was given to innovators and early adopters to ensure rapid dissemination of zinc rice cultivation. During the distribution event in Sirajganj, local officials acknowledged the resilience of farmers in sustaining Bangladesh’s agriculture despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.

This initiative, funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, aims to create an enabling environment for nutrient-rich foods by:

• Increasing awareness and access to biofortified planting materials
• Expanding zinc-enriched rice production
• Strengthening market connections through evidence-based advocacy
• Promoting zinc rice as a sustainable and nutritious alternative to conventional rice

As a global leader in biofortification research and implementation, HarvestPlus advances scientific innovation, agricultural transformation, and food security efforts worldwide. By integrating biofortified crops into mainstream food systems, initiatives like this one pave the way for a healthier, more resilient Bangladesh.