Phytotoxicity Test of Fertilizers on Food Crops

Fertilizers are an essential element in increasing agricultural productivity and maintaining the sustainability of modern agricultural systems.

The proper use of fertilizers can not only increase crop yields but also improve soil structure and quality by providing essential nutrients for plants. Nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium play a crucial role in plant growth and the development of roots, leaves, and fruits.Excessive use of fertilizers, not according to needs, or with the wrong formulation can have adverse effects, especially on food crops, by causing phytotoxicity symptoms.

Phytotoxicity testing is very important to evaluate the negative impact of fertilizers on plants. This test helps detect the presence of hazardous compounds in fertilizers that can affect plant health, especially food crops which are the main source of human consumption.

Accurate testing helps farmers and fertilizer producers prevent damage to plants due to poisoning, which indirectly helps protect the global food supply chain and ensures that the quality and quantity of the harvest are maintained. Therefore, phytotoxicity testing not only supports plant productivity but also plays an important role in maintaining food security and environmental sustainability.

What is Phytotoxicity?

Phytotoxicity is a condition in which a chemical compound, in this case fertilizer, causes stress or damage to plants. Symptoms vary from leaf discoloration (chlorosis or necrosis), decreased growth, to plant death.

In food crops, the impact of phytotoxicity can be much broader because it affects not only productivity, but also the quality and safety of the food produced.

Fertilizers contain various compounds such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other microelements. Although these elements are important for plant growth, excessive amounts can inhibit the physiological processes of plants.

Too much nitrogen can increase nitrate levels in food crops, which can potentially harm human health if consumed in large quantities.

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  • Preventing the accumulation of harmful compounds

One of the biggest risks of excessive fertilizer use is the accumulation of harmful compounds in plant tissues. For example, fertilizers containing heavy metals such as cadmium or lead can be absorbed by plant roots and collected in edible parts, such as fruits or leaves. These compounds have the potential to trigger serious health problems if accumulated in the human body.

  • Ensuring the optimal fertilizer dosage

Phytotoxicity testing helps determine the optimal dosage of fertilizer that can be given without causing negative impacts. By conducting this test, farmers can avoid excessive fertilizer application which not only damages plants but also wastes unnecessary production costs. Research shows that applying the right amount of fertilizer can increase yields without damaging the ecosystem or food crops.

  • Maintaining the quality and taste of food crops

The impact of phytotoxicity on food crops is not only seen in terms of the quantity of the harvest, but also its quality. Fertilizers that cause damage to plant tissue can affect the taste, texture, and nutritional content of food products. For example, excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers can increase the water content of fruits or vegetables, potentially reducing the levels of essential nutrients and changing their taste. 

  • Preventing economic losses

Food crops affected by phytotoxicity often experience significant declines in quality so that they do not meet market standards. This can cause economic losses for farmers, especially if the crop cannot be sold or must be sold at a lower price. Phytotoxicity testing conducted before widespread use of fertilizers can help minimize this risk.

Toxicity Testing Mechanisms and their Challenges

Phytotoxicity testing typically involves several easily observable parameters, such as germination rate, plant growth, leaf color, and general plant health. In addition, phytotoxicity testing can also include measuring the levels of certain compounds in plant tissue, such as nitrate, phosphate, or heavy metals.

Basically, testing is done by growing plants under controlled conditions and giving them fertilizers at various concentrations. Toxic effects are assessed based on visual observations and physiological measurements, such as photosynthesis rate or root growth.

Recent research has also developed molecular measurement techniques, such as enzyme assays or gene expression related to plant stress, to detect sublethal effects before visual signs appear.

One challenge in phytotoxicity testing is the variability in plant response to fertilizers. Each type of plant has a different tolerance to certain chemical compounds. Therefore, testing on food crops must be tailored to the type of plant to be grown in the field. In addition, environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and soil type also affect how plants respond to fertilizers given.

IML Testing and Research is a laboratory that has a team of experts with over 25 years of experience in conducting testing on a national and international scale. IML Testing and Research can conduct phytotoxicity tests on the fertilizer products that you will distribute. This is because we carry out fertilizer product testing according to the standards required by the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Indonesia. IML Testing and Research is a laboratory that has been accredited by the Ministry of Agriculture.

References

Khan, M., Arif, M., Taleequl, K., Duaa, K., Humera, R., Farah, A., & Mehwish, Z. (2022). Food Safety and the Effect of Fertilizers on Human Health. International Journal of Endorsing Health Science Research, 11(1): 55-57. Doi: 10.29052/IJEHSR.v11.i1.2023.54-57.

OEPP. (2014). PP 1/135 (4) Phytotoxicity assessment. Bulletin 44: 265-273. Doi: 10.1111/epp.12134.

Orlina, E., Besana, N., Señeris, G., & Capiña, K. (2023). Phytotoxicity Assessment of Biofertilizer Produced from Bioreactor Composting Technology Using Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) Seeds. Open Journal of Ecology, 13: 257-270. Doi: 10.4236/oje.2023.135017.

Penuelas, J., Coello, F. & Sardans, J. (2023). A better use of fertilizers is needed for global food security and environmental sustainability. Agric & Food Secur 12:5. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40066-023-00409-5.

Sedlacek, C.J., Giguere, A.T., & Pjevac, P. (2020). Is Too Much Fertilizer a Problem?. Frontiers for Young Minds, 8:63. Doi: 10.3389/frym.2020.00063.

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