Results of scientific experiments are presented to show that densities of trace minerals (e.g. zinc, iodine, selenium) can be significantly improved in food grains as consumed through use of fertilizers and foliar sprays. Fertilizer policies are placed in the context of overall food systems approaches to reducing mineral and vitamin deficiencies. The importance of trace minerals for plant nutrition are also discussed, and how levels of trace minerals in soils affect both plant nutrition and human nutrition.
