Effects of exogenous additives on the nutrient composition and metabolites of buckwheat1

Abstract

Germination can modify the nutritional composition of buckwheat, improving its nutritional value and health benefits. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of exogenous additives on the nutrient composition, particularly the role of different exogenous additives in the accumulation of buckwheat flavonoids and the mechanism underlying its accumulation. In this manuscript, it was evaluated studies on the physiological functions of buckwheat after germination, the effect of adding exogenous substances to improve the nutritional properties of the sprouts, and the impact of enriching bioactive substances and bioactive functions, with emphasis on exploring the mechanism of buckwheat flavonoids accumulation. Based on the aforementioned literature review, it was found that buckwheat seeds or sprouts were treated with various exogenous substances, including salts (e.g., NaCl, NaHCO3, CaCl2), phytohormones (e.g., indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), gibberellic acid (GA), abscisic acid (ABA), amino acids ((e.g. L-phenylalanine (L-phe)), vitamins (e.g. tyridoxal phosphate) and fungal extracts. A significant increase in flavonoids was found in the nutrient content of sprouted buckwheat. Moreover, this approach provides guidance for cultivating high-nutrient buckwheat and optimizing its utilization while offering a theoretical foundation for further research on grain germination.