Biochar reduces nitrate level in red beet.

Impacts of red beet consumption both on human and animal health are subject of intense research. In particular, products that are not heat-processed contain plethora of bioactive compounds that hold promise against numerous degenerative and aging-associated diseases. However, high level of nitrates (typically more than 2 g NO3- kg-1) whose health effects are perceived with reasoned objections counterbalance these benefits. Following the above, from a certain level, the increased consumption of red beet has contrary impacts, creating a limiting factor not only from the economic point of view but also in terms of beneficial compounds intake. Reduction of NO3- levels (- 35%) has been achieved by soil amendment via increased doses of biochar. The data obtained indicates that the mechanism can be explained as follows. The soil improvement reduces soil density, increases soil temperature, improves water retention, and other prerequisites for increased activity of soil microorganisms. Accelerated metabolism of soil biota turned more nitrogen from fertilizers into organic forms. Hence, less mineral nitrogen is left for red beet intake.

Grass Pollen Pollution from Biofuels Farming.

Based on its low costs and high harvests, red fescue (Festuca rubra ssp. rubra L.) is a promising plant for biofuel production in the subtropics and temperate climate. Once the acreage increases rapidly, its pollen pollution was studied in detail. Robust analysis on the shape, size, and chemical composition, especially the presence of allergens was conducted for 2 successive years in relation to 3 levels of N- and PK-fertilization. Multiparametric statistical analysis showed that there was no significant effect on the pollen grain size nor on the profile and content of the phenolic compounds. On the other hand, intense fertilization naturally increased the number of panicles, and consequently the overall pollen production. In addition, higher levels of fertilization significantly (P0.016, resp. P0.011) influences the content of tryptophan, which is involved in the occurrence and course of the allergic reactions.