Micronutrient deficiency in food crops and humans in Bangladesh and strategies for mitigation

Abstract

Micronutrients are substances required in trace amounts for the growth and metabolism of living organisms. In human nutrition, micronutrients include both vitamins and minerals, whereas in plant science, the term generally refers only to minerals. Thus, from a nutritional perspective, micronutrient deficiency denotes a lack of essential vitamins and minerals in the diet. Micronutrient deficiency is a major global health concern, affecting over two billion people worldwide, particularly children under five years of age and pregnant and lactating women. The most common deficiencies involve iron (leading to anaemia), zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin D. These deficiencies contribute to stunted growth, weakened immunity, cognitive impairment, and increased susceptibility to disease. This article aims to review the status of micronutrient deficiencies in both food crops and human populations in Bangladesh, and to advocate strategies for their mitigation. For normal growth and development, humans require 10 essential trace elements (minerals) and 14 vitamins. The trace elements include iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), iodine (I), selenium (Se), molybdenum (Mo), chromium (Cr), fluorine (F), and silicon (Si). Vitamins are classified into two groups: (a) water-soluble vitamins (e.g., ascorbic acid, biotin, cobalamin, folic acid, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, riboflavin, and thiamin), and (b) fat-soluble vitamins (e.g., retinoic acid, calciferol, tocopherol, phylloquinone, and menaquinone). In plants, the essential micronutrients include iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), boron (B), molybdenum (Mo), chlorine (Cl), and nickel (Ni). The health impacts of micronutrient deficiencies are often not immediately visible; hence, they are commonly referred to as “hidden hunger.” In many rural areas, cerealbased diets—while providing the majority of caloric intake—are relatively low in essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to this condition. Poverty further exacerbates the problem by limiting access to nutrient-rich foods such as meat, milk, fish, fruits, and vegetables. Addressing human micronutrient deficiencies requires a multifaceted approach, including supplementation, food fortification, biofortification, and dietary diversification. Additionally, homestead gardening (for fruits and vegetables) and nutrition education programs can play a crucial role in achieving long-term nutritional resilience. Future research should explore diverse and integrated strategies, particularly in fortification, biofortification, and public awareness, to effectively combat micronutrient deficiencies.

J. Bangladesh Acad. Sci. 50(1); 1-13: March 2026