Biochar reduces nitrate level in red beet
Language English Country Germany Media print-electronic
Document type Journal Article
PubMed
29785596
DOI
10.1007/s11356-018-2329-z
PII: 10.1007/s11356-018-2329-z
Knihovny.cz E-resources
- Keywords
- Biochar, Nitrate levels, Nitrates, Production management, Red beet,
- MeSH
- Beta vulgaris chemistry growth & development MeSH
- Charcoal chemistry MeSH
- Nitrates analysis MeSH
- Soil Pollutants analysis MeSH
- Fertilizers * analysis MeSH
- Soil chemistry MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
- Names of Substances
- biochar MeSH Browser
- Charcoal MeSH
- Nitrates MeSH
- Soil Pollutants MeSH
- Fertilizers * MeSH
- Soil MeSH
Impacts of red beet consumption both on human and animal health are subject of intense research. In particular, products that are not heat-processed contain plethora of bioactive compounds that hold promise against numerous degenerative and aging-associated diseases. However, high level of nitrates (typically more than 2 g NO3- kg-1) whose health effects are perceived with reasoned objections counterbalance these benefits. Following the above, from a certain level, the increased consumption of red beet has contrary impacts, creating a limiting factor not only from the economic point of view but also in terms of beneficial compounds intake. Reduction of NO3- levels (- 35%) has been achieved by soil amendment via increased doses of biochar. The data obtained indicates that the mechanism can be explained as follows. The soil improvement reduces soil density, increases soil temperature, improves water retention, and other prerequisites for increased activity of soil microorganisms. Accelerated metabolism of soil biota turned more nitrogen from fertilizers into organic forms. Hence, less mineral nitrogen is left for red beet intake.
