HarvestPlus Solutions (HPS) Indonesia, in collaboration with PT LeSOS (Lembaga Sertifikasi Organik Seloliman) and Agricultural Instrument Standardization Agency (BSIP) at Ministry of Agriculture Indonesia, is spearheading the development of biofortified rice standards. This initiative marks a crucial step toward enhancing the nutritional value of rice while ensuring alignment with national regulations. By establishing clear benchmarks for producers, processors, and consumers, these standards promote transparency, trust, and widespread adoption of biofortified rice ―a vital tool in combating micronutrient deficiencies.

Building Comprehensive Standards

Following the consultation workshop in May 2024, HPS and LeSOS have made significant strides in outlining the key components of biofortified rice production. These components encompass seed selection, agronomic practices, harvest and post-harvest processes, labelling and marketing, and traceability. For example, only labelled biofortified seeds from approved varieties are recommended for cultivation, ensuring consistency and quality. Agronomic practices adhere to IndoGAP (Indonesian Good Agricultural Practice) standards, emphasizing sustainable methods and the use of organic and zinc fertilizers. Meanwhile, traceability systems will track the origin and movement of rice through coding and record-keeping, with plans to integrate digital tools for enhanced transparency.

A robust certification framework is being developed to guarantee the quality of biofortified rice. The Internal Control System will provide rigorous quality assurance at each stage of production and processing. Training materials and inspection protocols are being designed to equip farmers and processors with the necessary knowledge and tools.

Implementation and Next Steps

A detailed implementation plan has been drafted to ensure the successful adoption of these standards. Key milestones include:

• Finalizing the critical point matrix by November 2024
• Preparing and signing a Memorandum of Understanding with LeSOS by December 2024
• Developing comprehensive training materials by February 2025.

HPS will host a consultation workshop with BSIP in early 2025 to review the standards, certification processes, and traceability systems.

The finalized standards, certification, and traceability system will be submitted to BSIP for feedback and approval. Subsequently, the standards and awareness materials will be disseminated widely among stakeholders through workshops, webinars, and online platforms, ensuring accessibility and understanding across the biofortified rice value chain.

Continuous Improvement for Long-term Impact

This collaborative initiative is a dynamic framework design to evolve. Mechanisms for continuous improvement will incorporate feedback from stakeholders, monitoring data, and the latest research findings.

By establishing a strong foundation for biofortified rice production, HPS Indonesia and its partners are paving the way for improved food security, better nutrition, and a healthier future for communities nationwide.

For further updates and participation opportunities, stay connected with HPS Indonesia and our partners.