Summary
This trial evaluated potassium hypochlorite application as a disinfectant in recirculating hydroponic tomato production at two chlorine concentrations (1 and 2 mg L⁻¹). Whilst hypochlorite effectively suppressed microorganisms and increased yield by 10% at the lower dose, both treatments resulted in substantial accumulation of chlorate residues in fruit (from 0.01 to 0.22–0.25 mg kg⁻¹ fresh weight), raising concerns about compliance with emerging maximum residue levels. Lycopene content increased, likely as a stress response to chlorate accumulation, though no phytotoxic damage was observed.
Regional applicability
The findings are directly applicable to United Kingdom hydroponic tomato producers and those considering recirculating systems, particularly regarding food safety compliance with evolving chlorate residue regulations. UK producers would need to weigh yield benefits against increasing chlorate MRL restrictions and consumer acceptability.
Key measures
Microorganism counts (suppression percentage), plant height (cm), leaf formation, fruit yield (% change), chlorate content (mg ClO₃⁻ kg⁻¹ fresh weight), lycopene concentration
Outcomes reported
The study measured microorganism suppression, plant growth parameters, fruit yield, chlorate residue content, and lycopene levels in tomatoes exposed to different hypochlorite treatment regimens in a recirculating hydroponic system. Treatment efficacy and phytotoxic effects were assessed over a seven-week growing period.
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