Commercial and phytochemical quality in biofortified ‘Orejona’ lettuce with zinc oxide nanoparticles

Abstract

Crop biofortification is a recent strategy based on the production of plants rich in micronutrients for human consumption. The biofortification of plants with minerals is considered one of the least expensive and most efficient ways to improve the commercial and nutritional quality of horticultural products, in addition to improving crop yields. The objective of the research was to evaluate commercial and phytochemical quality, physiological parameters, and zinc concentration in lettuce leaves (Lactuca sativa L.) after foliar application of zinc oxide nanoparticles (NPsZnO) produced under a hydroponic system. The experiment was carried out with six treatments (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 mg.L-1 NPsZnO) of five replicates each, under a completely randomized design. Five applications every 15 days of each concentration of NPsZnO were made through the crop cycle. The results show no statistical differences in physiological parameters (height, number of leaves, leaf size, crown perimeter, fresh and dry weight), but that do show a slight tendency to increase on the treated lettuce mainly at concentrations of 20 and 25 mg.L-1. A positive correlation was found between the phytochemical variables (phenolics and total flavonols) and the concentration of NPsZnO. Even though there was not a clear correlation between NPsZnO concentration and the variables of commercial quality; Zn content in the plant tissue was improved, thereby obtaining a biofortified product for the final consumer.

Keywords

• foliar application
• Lactuca sativa L
• phenolics compounds
• flavonoids
• zinc