Fertilizing Crops to Improve Human Health: A Scientific Review

Since 1948, World Health Organization has defined human health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” A large proportion of humanity depends for its sustenance on the food production increases brought about through the application of fertilizers to crops. Fertilizer contributes to both the quantity and quality of the food produced.

Used in the proper way—applying the right source at the right rate, time and place—and on the right crops, it contributes immensely to the health and well-being of humanity. Therefore, sustainable agricultural development and sustainable fertilizer use must increasingly focus on nourishing human health, towards a goal of healthy and productive lives for all in the context of a burgeoning world population.

While the current role of fertilizers in supporting human health is large, the opportunities to expand it even further are also substantial.

The International Plant Nutrition Institute (IPNI) and International Fertilizer Industry Association (IFA) have joined hands to produce a Scientific Review on Fertilizing Crops to Improve Human Health, which is comprised of 11 chapters within three themed sections. All the three themed sections on Food and Nutrition Security, Functional Foods, and Risk Reduction are now available in a print (hardcopy) version.

You may order the publication by using the form provided or purchase the book directly from the IPNI on-line store.