Sustainable coating technology to enhance tomato seed quality

Abstract

This study developed and characterized a low-cost biodegradable polymeric matrix based on cassava starch, gelatin, and oat hulls for coating tomato seeds. The coated seeds were characterized by their production yield, pH, density, mass distribution, moisture content, solubility, water absorption, and water adsorption capacity. The coating process resulted in seeds with different shapes, lower densities, and higher masses than uncoated seeds. The pH of the coated seeds ranged from 6.09 to 6.55, and the moisture contents ranged from 7.68 to 9.08%.The highest proportions of starch resulted in more brittle and soluble coated seeds, which were difficult to handle, while the higher gelatin content resulted in harder and smaller ones. The S50G50 formulation (50% starch, 50% gelatin) demonstrated superior properties, offering benefits such as higher production yields, easier handling, lower solubility, and higher water absorption capacity. Coated seeds showed 76% germination, compared to 85% for uncoated seeds, with no statistically significant difference according to the t-test (P > 0.05). This indicated that the biodegradable polymeric matrix preserves seed viability and is effective for the intended application. The paper highlighted the potential of utilizing a biodegradable polymeric matrix to improve the quality and management of tomato seeds, providing a promising approach to sustainable agricultural practices.