Tallarita, Alessio Vincenzo (2025) Multifunctional Approaches for Nitrate Content Reduction in Ready-to-Eat Rocket: From Agronomic Management to Innovative Technologies. [Tesi di dottorato]

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Abstract

Wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia L. DC.) represents one of the most economically significant leafy vegetables in the ready-to-eat sector, with Italy maintaining global production leadership across over 4,000 hectares. However, this species exhibits exceptional nitrate hyperaccumulation capacity, with concentrations frequently exceeding 9,000 mg kg⁻¹ fresh weight, presenting substantial challenges for food safety compliance with European regulatory thresholds (6,000-7,000 mg kg⁻¹ depending on seasonal production periods). This doctoral thesis presents a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach for nitrate content reduction in wild rocket through innovative agronomic strategies while maintaining superior yield and quality parameters. The research encompasses three principal investigation lines: selenium/iodine biofortification, sustainable agronomic management, and biostimulant applications. In the biofortification study, combined foliar application of sodium selenate (50 mg Se L⁻¹) and potassium iodide (100 mg I L⁻¹) demonstrated synergistic effects, increasing yield by 63%, antioxidant activity by 24%, and mineral content, while simultaneously reducing nitrate levels by 12%. Biofortification enabled the production of functional food capable of providing up to 100% of daily selenium requirements and 34% of iodine needs through a 50 g serving. The sustainable agronomic management study evaluated the efficacy of Sudan grass (Sorghum × Drummondii) green manure incorporation and cutting height optimization. While green manure did not significantly influence nitrate levels, harvesting at 6 cm versus 3 cm above cotyledons reduced nitrate content by 13.6%, albeit with a corresponding 35.7% yield reduction. The genotype-biostimulant interaction study examined five wild rocket genotypes treated with three biostimulant formulations (Cystoseira tamariscifolia, protein hydrolysate, Spirulina platensis). Results revealed genotype-specific responses, with protein hydrolysate improving nitrogen use efficiency by 22-28% in four varieties, while Spirulina platensis proved most effective (+33.3%) in the Venice cultivar. Collective findings demonstrate that nitrate management in wild rocket can be effectively achieved through targeted, sustainable approaches, establishing new paradigms for high-quality leafy vegetable production that meets regulatory compliance while addressing increasing market demands for safe, functional foods.

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