Consumption of Zinc Biofortified Rice Diet Improved Mineral Availability: An Approach to Address Micronutrient Malnutrition

Zinc (Zn), a micronutrient, plays vital roles in various biological functions and its inadequate intake results in various clinical manifestations. Biofortification of staple crops through breeding approaches has been attempted to ensure a higher dietary intake of Zn. The present study assessed the bioavailability of zinc from biofortified rice in Wistar rats. Two rice-based feed pellets were prepared: conventional/control (CR—MTU1010) and Zn-biofortified rice (ZnBR—DRR Dhan 48). Rats were fed their respective diets for 45 days to assess the Zn intake, retention, distribution and excretion. Daily feed intake and weekly body weight were recorded, and a digestion trial was conducted during last five days of the feeding period. Mean body weights at the start and end of experiment were comparable (p > 0.05) (246 and 240 g) with similar feed consumption. Zn absorption from ZnBR was 45.12%, compared to 26.65% from CR. The biologically available zinc from ZnBR was 2.3 times higher than that from CR. Zn content in the major storage tissues was not altered (p > 0.05) due to consumption of ZnBR. The study revealed that biological availability of zinc from ZnBR was higher than that of CR, which could be useful in managing Zn-related malnutrition.