EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF SOIL AMENDMENTS ON FOOD SAFETY AND CROP PRODUCTIVITY FOR SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

Abstract

Aflatoxins impact the entire food supply chain, from agricultural fields to processing facilities, markets, and consumer tables. In peanut cultivation, this threat poses a constant challenge throughout the cultivation, processing, and consumption stages. To confront this challenge, an exhaustive study was undertaken with the aim of investigating the effects of targeted soil amendments; namely, Vermicompost, Lentil crop residue, and Sulphate of Potash applied during the pivotal sowing phase at two distinct locations, Chakwal and Attock. The research includes meticulous groundnut sample analysis to quantify aflatoxin levels, revealing a significant reduction across all soil amendments compared to the control group. Vermicompost stands out as the most effective, achieving a remarkable 64.8% reduction, followed closely by Sulphate of Potash at 62.4%. Statistical analysis highlights non-significant differences among amendments. Beyond aflatoxin mitigation, the study underscores the dual benefit of these soil amendments, contributing not only to mycotoxin control but also enhancing overall crop productivity. Percent increase in number of grains per plant ranged between 58.82% to 43.53% whereas in hundred grain weight it ranged between 17.10% and 10.55%. In summary, the study emphasizes the importance of strategic soil amendments, particularly Vermicompost and Sulphate of Potash, in mitigating aflatoxin contamination in peanuts. The dual benefit of improved crop productivity adds significance to the findings, offering a holistic approach to address the multifaceted dimensions of aflatoxin challenges in peanut cultivation.