Humic acid chelated selenium is suitable for wheat biofortification.

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Food Science
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Inorganic selenium, used in Se-enriched bread production, poses toxicity risks.
• Developing green bread production technologies is crucial for sustainability.
• Humic acid chelated selenium offers a non-polluting, resource-efficient alternative for selenium enrichment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate humic acid chelated selenium as a safe and effective selenium source for bread wheat.
• To compare its effects against traditional selenium sources like sodium selenite and nanoselenium.
• To assess its impact on wheat yield, grain quality, and seed vigor.

Main Methods:

• Wheat cultivation with humic acid chelated selenium, sodium selenite, and nanoselenium.
• Analysis of selenium absorption and accumulation in wheat leaves and grains.
• Evaluation of wheat yield, grain protein content, processing quality, and seed germination.

Main Results:

• Humic acid chelated selenium was absorbed by wheat leaves with no significant impact on yield.
• Excessive nanoselenium inhibited grain protein, while humic acid chelated selenium promoted it.
• Humic acid chelated selenium improved seed vigor compared to untreated wheat, unlike excessive selenium accumulation.

Conclusions:

• Humic acid chelated selenium is ideal for Se-enriched bread wheat production.
• It promotes grain protein and enhances seed vigor, offering a safer selenium source.
• This method minimizes negative impacts on processing quality and soil ecosystems.