In the heart of Croatia, researchers are delving into the intricate world of soil chemistry to tackle a global health challenge often referred to as “hidden hunger.” This phenomenon, characterized by microelement deficiencies, is a silent crisis affecting millions worldwide. Lucija Galić, from the Faculty of Agrobiotechnical Sciences Osijek at Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, is leading the charge in understanding how soil properties influence the availability of essential microelements in crops, ultimately impacting human health.
Galić’s research, published in the journal Crops (translated as “Uroda” in English), focuses on nine critical microelements: selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), boron (B), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and chlorine (Cl). These elements are vital for both plant metabolism and human nutrition. “Optimal human health relies on adequate dietary intake of these essential microelements,” Galić explains. “Their bioavailability in the food chain is critically determined by their geochemical behavior in soils.”
The study highlights the dual challenge of microelement deficiencies in agricultural soils, which can lead to inadequate crop accumulation, and the potential for localized toxicities arising from anthropogenic inputs or geogenic enrichment. Galić emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of the sources, soil–plant transfer, and plant uptake mechanisms of these microelements, with particular attention to key soil properties such as pH, redox potential, organic matter content, and mineral composition.
One promising solution to these microelement deficiencies is biofortification, a strategy that enhances nutrient content in food by improving soil and plant uptake. This approach includes agronomic methods like fertilization and soil amendments, as well as genetic approaches such as marker-assisted selection and genetic engineering to boost microelement density in edible tissues.
The research also underscores the importance of advanced predictive modeling techniques, such as ensemble learning-based digital soil mapping. Integrating machine learning with digital covariates improves spatial prediction accuracy, optimizes soil fertility management, and supports sustainable agriculture. “Given the rising global population and the consequent pressures on agricultural production, a comprehensive understanding of microelement dynamics in the soil–plant system is essential for developing sustainable strategies to mitigate deficiencies and ensure food and nutritional security,” Galić states.
The implications of this research are far-reaching, particularly for the agricultural and energy sectors. As the world grapples with the challenges of feeding a growing population while maintaining nutritional standards, innovative solutions like those proposed by Galić and her team could pave the way for more resilient and productive agricultural systems. By optimizing soil management practices and enhancing crop nutrient content, farmers and agribusinesses can improve yields and nutritional quality, ultimately benefiting both human health and the economy.
Moreover, the integration of advanced technologies like machine learning and digital soil mapping offers new opportunities for precision agriculture, enabling more targeted and efficient use of resources. This not only enhances productivity but also promotes sustainability, addressing environmental concerns and ensuring long-term viability.
As the global community continues to seek solutions to the complex challenges of food security and nutritional deficiencies, the work of researchers like Lucija Galić provides a beacon of hope. By unraveling the intricate relationships between soil properties, microelement availability, and human health, this research lays the groundwork for innovative strategies that could transform agricultural practices and improve lives worldwide.