A farmer in Ilocos Norte has achieved nearly double the national average yield using a high-zinc rice variety, according to Philstar Biz. The variety, developed by the Philippine Rice Research Institute, is part of efforts to combat child stunting and micronutrient deficiency in the country.
The high-zinc rice, which is being tested in select areas, offers a biofortified alternative to traditional rice varieties. Zinc deficiency is a major public health concern in the Philippines, linked to stunted growth and weakened immunity in children.
The Philippine Rice Research Institute continues to promote the cultivation of nutrient-dense crops, aiming to integrate them into the national food system and improve dietary quality, especially in rural communities.