Govt Launches XRF Portal to Strengthen Nutrition Monitoring

New Delhi [India], April 9

In a big step forward for India’s fight against lack of important nutrients, a new website is now live that helps people find X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) testing centers to check the nutrition level in crops. This move aims to bring high-quality testing to every part of the country.

Biofortification—improving food crops with key minerals like iron, zinc, and calcium—is getting global attention as a lasting way to fight malnutrition. But how can we be sure a crop is really improved? That’s where modern tools come in.

With X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) Spectrometry, labs can quickly check if grains or flours contain the right minerals. Compared to old lab methods, which take longer and cost more, XRF is a smarter option. It gives quick results, doesn’t use chemicals, and is affordable—making it great for wide use in India’s farming areas.

Why is XRF testing important?

Quick Results – Get answers much faster than with old testing methods.

Low Cost – Good for researchers, seed makers, and food companies who need cheap but correct testing.

Early Checks – Helpful in finding healthy crop types early during development.

No Damage – Samples stay safe and can be used again or tested more.

This new effort will help scientists, farming businesses, and food makers make sure the food they grow and sell is not just filling, but also healthy.

Why this is important for India

India has many people who don’t get enough important nutrients like iron and zinc. These shortages affect how children grow, women’s health, and how well people work. Biofortified crops are a home-grown way to solve this—but only if they are checked properly. With this lab, India can now test healthy crops on a large scale.

It also opens new chances for Indian food exporters and brands. Tested, nutrient-rich foods can meet the growing demand for healthier products in India and other countries.

“We’re happy to bring this testing tool to more people through the website,” said Ravinder Grover, COO of HarvestPlus Solutions. “It helps everyone—from breeders to buyers—make smart choices based on trusted data.”

Building a healthier future

This lab supports the bigger goal of HarvestPlus Solutions: making biofortified crops easy to access, trusted, and able to grow widely. With this, India takes a big step toward better nutrition and better incomes for farmers—one tested crop at a time.