Biofilm biofertilizer enhances bioactive compounds including antioxidant activity in hybrid rice grains

Excessive use of chemical fertilizers (CF) in rice cultivation has adversely affected soil and crop productivity and human and environmental health. This has led to the introduction of bio-organic inputs like biofilm biofertilizers (BFBF), which have been shown to increase crop yields and soil quality with reduced CF use. However, the effect of the BFBF on rice grain quality has been understudied. The present study investigated the effect of BFBF on bioactive compounds in rice grains, including antioxidants, which are essential in protecting against diseases related to oxidative stress. The study compared two practices i.e. CF practice and BFBF practice, using six hybrid rice varieties. Harvested grain samples were analyzed for total phenolics (TPC), flavonoids (TFC), and Gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) contents, and antioxidant capacity (TAC). Results showed that the BFBF significantly (p < 0.05) increased TPC, TFC, and GABA in most rice varieties. The TAC was also significantly (p < 0.05) higher (30-200%) in the rice grains produced by the BFBF practice. In conclusion, the BFBF alters the biochemical processes of the rice plant leading to improved medicinal properties showing its potential to produce high-quality rice, which is essential to improve human health.