Increase of selenium concentration in wheat grains through foliar application of sodium selenate

Abstract

Selenium (Se) in small amounts is an essential element for human beings and provides several health benefits. However, its deficiency in the population is commonly reported in the scientific literature. Thus, the biofortification of wheat crops shows promise as it is one of the world’s most consumed foods. The present work aimed to obtain a recommendation for selenium fertilization through foliar application for wheat (Triticum spp.) crops, with the goal of promoting the biofortification of the grains. For this purpose, an experiment was performed in field conditions, in which Se was applied in the form of sodium selenate at 4 different doses (0, 5, 10 and 20 g ha−1). After the physiological maturation of the wheat plants, samples were analyzed in order to assess the Se concentration in the aerial parts of the plants and in the grains, and to evaluate the agronomic productivity and efficiency. The Se dose of 5 g ha−1 provided Se accumulation in wheat grains and represented the highest efficiency in absorption with no compromise to the productivity. This dose can supply up to 75 % of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of this nutrient. Thus, the biofortification of wheat crops was achieved and revealed to be more efficient when Se is applied at lower doses.