Biofortification refers to:

The correct answer is Option (4) → Breeding crops with higher levels of vitamins and minerals, or higher protein and healthier fat

Option (1) Sources of proteins for animal and human nutrition — Incorrect. This describes single cell protein (SCP), microbes grown as a protein source.

Option (2) Production of somatic hybrids — Incorrect. Somatic hybrids come from fusing protoplasts of two plants, as in the pomato.

Option (3) Use of mutation breeding — Incorrect. Mutation breeding creates new variation by treating plants with chemicals or radiation. It is a method, not the aim of biofortification.

Option (4) Breeding crops with higher levels of vitamins and minerals, or higher protein and healthier fat — Correct. Biofortification improves the nutritional quality of crops. Examples are maize hybrids with twice the lysine and tryptophan, and iron-fortified rice.

Note: This question is from Chapter 9, Strategies for Enhancement in Food Production, of the pre-rationalised NCERT book. This chapter is not in the present NCERT book (2026-27). The extract below is from the pre-rationalised edition.

NCERT Extract (Pre-rationalised edition, Chapter 9, Strategies for Enhancement in Food Production):
Plant Breeding for Improved Food Quality – “… Diets lacking essential micronutrients – particularly iron, vitamin A, iodine and zinc – increase the risk for disease, reduce lifespan and reduce mental abilities. Biofortification – breeding crops with higher levels of vitamins and minerals, or higher protein and healthier fats – is the most practical means to improve public health.”