Summary
This hydroponic experiment evaluated iodine biofortification of strawberry by applying iodide (I−) or iodate (IO3−) at various concentrations. Low-level iodine application (I− ≤ 0.25 mg L−1 or IO3− ≤ 0.50 mg L−1) promoted plant growth and enhanced fruit quality by increasing vitamin C and soluble sugars, whilst iodide application preferentially reduced acidity and nitrate content compared to iodate. The resulting fruit iodine content (600–4000 µg kg−1) could contribute meaningfully to adult iodine requirements, suggesting strawberry as a viable biofortification crop.
Regional applicability
The study was conducted under controlled hydroponic conditions and geography is not specified. Findings on iodine biofortification feasibility and cultivar responsiveness may be transferable to United Kingdom protected horticulture and commercial strawberry production, though field validation under UK growing conditions and assessment of winter dormancy effects would be needed.
Key measures
Iodine content in fruit (µg kg−1), plant organ iodine uptake, plant biomass, vitamin C content, soluble sugar content, total acidity, nitrate content
Outcomes reported
The study measured iodine uptake characteristics, plant growth, biomass, and fruit quality parameters (vitamin C, soluble sugars, total acidity, nitrate content) in strawberry plants exposed to varying concentrations of iodide or iodate in hydroponic culture.
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