Gender and the adoption of biofortified crop varieties in low and middle-income countries: a review

Gender influences the adoption of agricultural innovations, yet evidence on its role in the adoption of biofortified crops in low- and middle-income countries remains limited, even though women and children in low-income households have increased risk of micronutrient deficiencies (hidden hunger). Biofortified crops enriched with vitamin A, iron, zinc, or protein can reduce hidden hunger, but adoption is believed to be shaped by household gender dynamics that have not been systematically assessed. Here, we systematically review 121 studies covering 114 biofortified crop varieties to investigate how gender influences adoption of biofortified crops within smallholder farming communities, and the outcomes accruing to these. Specifically, we addressed four questions: (1) Which biofortified crop varieties are available? (2) Does gender affect their adoption? (3) What income or livelihood improvements arise from adoption of biofortified varieties? and (4) Does consumption improve nutritional status of smallholder farming communities? We found that adoption of biofortified crops was influenced in multiple ways linked to women’s control of household assets, while key determinants of adoption included availability of planting material, taste preferences, agronomic performance and constraints in labor and financial inputs. Overall, the studies confirm that adoption of biofortified crops can lead to improved livelihoods through enhanced nutritional security and greater economic opportunities. However, increasing adoption of biofortified crops by women smallholders requires targeted policy support, investment in gender-sensitive extension and market infrastructure, and supports for women-focused farmer organizations. Targeted financial interventions are also needed to reduce resource barriers, enabling both men and women to realize the nutritional and economic benefits of biofortification.