Interactive effects of genotype, nitrogen and sulfur fertilization on buckwheat starch properties: Composition,...

This study investigated the effects of genotype (G), nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) fertilizers as well as their interactions on buckwheat starch properties. Five varieties were evaluated under varying N (0, 45 and 90 kg N ha^-1) and S (0 and 45 kg SO₃ ha^-1) levels to investigate the main and interactive effects. The results showed that G played a dominant role in determining color characteristics and functional properties of buckwheat starch. Among different genotypes, significant variations were observed in amylose (23.86-30.00 %), amylopectin (53.92-60.39 %) and total starch (83.86-84.97 %) content. N fertilizer was the most influential factor for improving starch composition, pasting behavior and thermal characteristics. Meanwhile, S fertilizer exhibited moderate but significant effects on the evaluated parameters. As for the interaction, there was significant impact among G, N and S across the evaluated parameters, with two-way interactions (G x N, G x S and N x S) exhibiting stronger influences than three-way interaction (G x N x S). These findings indicated the complex relationship between genetic and agronomic factors, providing insights for optimizing buckwheat starch properties through targeted breeding and fertilization strategies. This research provides a foundation for improving functional foods based on buckwheat starch and developing sustainable cultivation practices.