Efficiency of zinc biofortification in rice grains

Efeito da biofortificação de zinco em grãos de arroz

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of biofortification in rice. The samples analyzed went through three treatments: A (control – no biofortification), B (in soil fertilization with ZnSO4.7H2O), and C (two foliar fertilization
with ZnSO₄.7H₂O). The atomic absorption spectroscopy technique was used to find the Zn content in each treatment in different parts of the grain. The biofortification did not result in alteration in the mineral concentration in the endosperm,which is the portion of the grain consumed by humans. Additionally, it was observed that elevated Zn concentrations, generally, are found in the bran alongside the germ. The treatment C, which consisted of two foliar applications, presented higher mineral concentration in the grain coat. Therefore, in order for a good biofortification performance, it is indicated the consumption of the grains in their whole form.