Revolutionary Biofortification Method Boosts Beta-Carotene in Plants to Combat Vitamin A Deficiency

Scientists have developed a breakthrough method to enhance the beta-carotene content in plant leaves by up to 30 times using biotechnology and high light intensity. This innovative approach increases beta-carotene storage in non-photosynthetic areas of the plant, such as plastoglobules and fat storage vesicles, without harming essential processes like photosynthesis. Beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, is crucial for vision, cell function, and immune health. This biofortification technique was first tested on tobacco plants and later applied to lettuce, offering potential solutions for vitamin A deficiency while preserving the vegetable’s natural taste and appearance.

Source: https://www.nutritioninsight.com/news/golden-lettuce-researchers-fortify-leaves-to-boost-pro-vitamin-a-content.html