Introduction
Food security is increasingly challenged by climate change, soil degradation, and water scarcity. Although chemical fertilizers have boosted agricultural productivity, their excessive use can degrade soil fertility, contaminate water resources, and leave residues in crops, thereby raising concerns for food quality and safety. In this context, sustainable organic inputs provide an alternative strategy that not only improves soil health but also enhances the nutritional and functional properties of agricultural products. Tomatoes, being among the most consumed vegetables and a major source of antioxidants and vitamins, offer an ideal model to study the link between soil management and food quality.
Materials and Methods:
A field experiment was carried out under semi-arid conditions. Tomato plants were grown under two controlled water-stress regimes and amended with locally produced organic inputs derived from horse manure vermicompost, applied at two concentration levels. Soil physicochemical characteristics, plant physiological responses, and fruit quality traits were assessed, with a focus on bioactive compounds and indicators relevant to nutritional value and food safety.
Results:
Organic amendments improved soil fertility and water retention capacity, along with enhanced microbial activity. At the physiological level, plants showed better leaf relative water content (RWC) and stronger responses to drought stress. Fruit analysis revealed significant increases in lycopene, ascorbic acid , protein content , enhanced antioxidant capacity (DPPH), and extended shelf life. Notably, higher organic inputs achieved the most consistent improvements across these parameters.
Conclusions:
This study highlights the close connection between soil management and food quality. By enhancing soil fertility and improving the nutritional and postharvest traits of tomatoes, organic approaches represent a promising pathway to produce safe, nutritious food while contributing to sustainable food security under climate challenges.
