HYDROGEN FARMING

Abstract

Molecular hydrogen, a gas that is abundantly present in the atmosphere, is light, colorless, odorless, and non-toxic. Its ability to rapidly penetrate tissues, along with its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gene-regulatory biological effects, has been predominantly applied in the medical field. These biological effects of hydrogen may also yield beneficial outcomes in agricultural practices. The agricultural sector faces numerous challenges, including population growth, air pollution, climate change, and declining soil fertility. Hydrogen's reducibility, as well as its characteristics as a plant growth regulator, and its safe, environmentally friendly, and sustainable properties, make it a promising approach for both addressing these challenges and advancing agricultural development. Hydrogen farming refers to the application of hydrogen biology in agriculture. Hydrogen-rich water (HRW) treatments can regulate plant hormones, enhance resistance to stress conditions, support growth and development, increase nutritional value, and influence protein modifications through the regulation of mRNA and DNA expression. Furthermore, it may help reduce nitrite accumulation during storage, thus contributing to food safety. This study aims to investigate the effects of hydrogen farming by reviewing research involving hydrogen-rich water (HRW) applied to various pre-harvest vegetables and fruits.