PROTEIN HYDROLYZATE AND ITS USE

Description

2 Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the description of the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as they are generally understood by the specialist in the technical field of the invention. For a better assessment of the description of the invention, the following 5 terms are explicitly explained. The term "gew.%" is synonymous with "m%" and refers to weight percent, a measure of the concentration of a specific ingredient in a mixture, expressed as a percentage of the total weight of the composition.10 In this document, "a", "the" and "the" refer to both the singular and the plural unless the context clearly implies otherwise. For example, "a segment" means one or more than a segment. 15 The terms “comprehensive”, “comprehensive”, “consist of”, “consisting of”, “provided with”, “contain”, “containing”, “encompass”, “containing”, “include”, “containing” are synonyms and are inclusive or open terms that indicate the presence of what follows, and that do not exclude or prevent the presence of other components,characteristics, elements, members, steps, known from or described in the standard20 technique. The citing of numerical intervals through the endpoints includes all integers, fractions and / or real numbers between the endpoints, including these endpoints. 25 The term "protein hydrolysate" refers to a product obtained by breaking down protein-rich material via hydrolysis, whereby larger molecules are converted into smaller ones. In the present invention, the term "animal protein hydrolysate" refers to a30 protein hydrolysate derived from animal proteins, such as those derived from poultry, cattle, sheep, pigs, domestic animals, birds, fur animals, fish, insects, crustaceans and shellfish, or animal species such as deer or camels. The term "thermal hydrolysis" refers to a method of breaking down chemical35 compounds using heat. BE2024 / 5939 3 The term "enzymatic hydrolysis" refers to a process in which enzymes are used to break down chemical compounds, resulting in the formation of a hydrolysate.In the present invention, the term "peptides" refers to the short chains of 5 amino acids formed by the splitting of proteins during the hydrolysis process. In the present invention, the term "molecular mass" refers to the mass of a molecule, expressed in Daltons (Da). The molecular mass of peptides is measured using techniques such as gel permeation chromatography (GPC) or 10 mass spectrometry, preferably according to a standardised method such as ISO 10927:2018 for the determination of the molecular mass of polymers. The term "gew.%" or "weight percent" in the present invention refers to the weight percentage of a specific component in relation to the total weight of the peptides in the protein hydrolysate. This percentage is calculated by dividing the mass of the relevant peptides by the total mass of all peptides and then multiplying by 100. The term "inoculum" in the present invention refers to a material containing bacteria that is used as a substrate (such as, for example,agricultural soil) to inoculate. This inoculation may comprise nitrogen-fixing bacteria that live in symbiosis with plant roots and promote nitrogen fixation. The term "seed treatment" in the present invention refers to bringing a protein hydrolysate into contact with the seed surface, for example by means of a coating, or to bringing seeds and protein hydrolysate into simultaneous contact during the sowing process. In a first aspect, the invention concerns a protein hydrolysate. Preferably a protein hydrolysate for seed optimization. Seed optimization refers to the simultaneous, sequential, or separate application of the seeds to the soil in combination with the protein hydrolysate. In a preferred form, the protein hydrolysate contains peptides with a lower molecular mass. In a standard form, the protein hydrolysate contains at least 90 wt.% peptides with a molecular mass of up to 500 Daltons. The inventors found that this low molecular mass fraction ensures improved nutrient absorption BE2024 / 5939 4by the plants, particularly nitrogen, which contributes to accelerated and improved plant growth. The low molecular mass fraction of the peptides in the protein hydrolysate ensures the effectiveness of the seed optimization. This distribution optimizes the symbiotic interactions of the plant with beneficial microorganisms, such as symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which are important for nitrogen fixation in some plants, such as legumes. By improving these interactions, the resistance of plants to diseases and pests is strengthened, resulting in, among other things, more robust plants. In addition to increased nutrient uptake and improved symbiotic interactions, the treatment offers a biological and environmentally friendly solution that aligns with sustainable agricultural practices. This can lead to a reduced dependence on chemical fertilizers, which both reduces the ecological footprint of agricultural practices and lowers economic costs for farmers. The described hydrolysate is not only effective in increasing plant growthand the formation of root nodules, but also in promoting the overall health of the plant. This is achieved through a synergistic interaction between the 20 Rhizobium bacteria and the biostimulant, resulting in improved nitrogen fixation and overall growth conditions. These improved growth conditions contribute to higher yields and crop quality, which is of great importance to the agricultural sector. 25 In one formulation form, at least 80 wt.% of the peptides in the protein hydrolysate have a molecular mass of most 500 Daltons. Preferably, the protein hydrolysate contains at least 85 wt.% peptides, more preferably at least 90 wt.% peptides, even more preferably at least 95 wt.%, and even more preferably at least 98 wt.%, with a molecular mass of maximum 500 Daltons. 30 In another or further formulation form, between 80 and 99 wt.% of the peptides have a molecular mass of most 500 Daltons. Preferably, the protein hydrolysate contains between 85 and 99 wt.% peptides, more preferably between 90 and 99 wt.% peptides, even more preferably between 95 and 99 wt.%, with a molecular 35mass of maximum 500 Daltons. BE2024 / 5939 5 In one formulation form, a maximum of 10 wt.% of the peptide has a molecular mass of at least 500 Daltons. Preferably, the protein hydrolysate comprises a maximum of 9 wt.%, preferably a maximum of 8 wt.%, even more preferably a maximum of 7 wt.%, even more preferably a maximum of 6 wt.%, even more preferably a maximum of 5 wt.% peptides with a molecular mass of at least 500 Daltons. 5 In another or further formulation form, between 0.1 and 10 wt.% of the peptides has a molecular mass of between 500 and 1000 Daltons. Preferably, the protein hydrolysate comprises between 1 and 9 wt.%, preferably between 1 and 8 wt.%, even more preferably between 1 and 7 wt.%, even more preferably between 1 and 6 wt.%, 10 preferably between 1 and 5 wt.% peptides with a molecular mass of between 500 and 1000 Daltons. These higher molecular mass peptides can play a supporting role in maintaining the bioactivity of the treatment, enabling the plant to remain able to efficiently absorb nutrients over a longer period.15In a standard form, between 30 and 60 wt.% of the peptides have a molecular mass between 204 and 300 Daltons, preferably between 35 and 55 wt.%, or even between 40 and 50 wt.%. 20 In a preferred form, at least 90 wt.% of the peptides in the protein hydrolysate have a molecular mass of most 500 Daltons, and between 35 and 55 wt.% of the peptides have a molecular mass between 204 and 300 Daltons. In a formulation form, at least 70 wt.% of the peptides have a molecular mass of at most 400 Daltons. Preferably, the protein hydrolysate contains at least 75 wt.% peptides, more preferably at least 80 wt.% peptides, even more preferably at least 85 wt.%, and even more preferably at least 90 wt.%, with a molecular mass of at most 400 Daltons. 30 In another or further formulation, between 70 and 99 wt.% of the peptides have a molecular mass of most 400 Daltons. Preferably, the protein hydrolysate comprises between 75 and 99 wt.% peptides, more preferably between 80 and 99 wt.% peptides, and even more preferably between 80 and 95 wt.%, with a molecular mass of maximum 400 Daltons.35 BE2024 / 5939 6In another or further form, at least 90 wt.% of the peptides have a molecular mass of most 500 Daltons, and at least 80 wt.% of the peptides have a molecular mass of most 400 Daltons. In a form, between 5 and 50 wt.% of the peptides have a molecular mass of most 204 Daltons, preferably between 10 and 40 wt.%, even more preferably between 10 and 30 wt.%, even more preferably between 10 and 25 wt.%, even more preferably between 15 and 25 wt.%. In one formulation form, between 5 and 40 wt.% of the peptides have a molecular mass between 300 and 400 Daltons, preferably between 10 and 30 wt.%, even more preferably between 10 and 25 wt.%, even more preferably between 15 and 25 wt.%. In one formulation form, between 1 and 15 wt.% of the peptides have a molecular mass between 400 and 500 Daltons, preferably between 1 and 10 wt.%. In one preferred formulation, at least 90 wt.% of the peptides in the protein hydrolysate have a molecular mass of most 500 Daltons and between 10 and 30 wt.% of the peptides have a molecular mass of the 20 most 204 Daltons, preferably between 15 and 25 wt.%;-between 35 and 55 wt.% of the peptide and molecular mass located between 204 and 300 Daltons, preferably between 40 and 50 wt.%; -between 10 and 30 wt.% of the peptide and molecular mass located between 300 and 400 Daltons, preferably between 15 and 25 wt.%; and 25 -between 1 and 15 wt.% of the peptide and molecular mass located between 400 and 500 Daltons, preferably between 1 and 10 wt.%. This specific molecular mass distribution of peptides contributes to an improved symbiotic interaction with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which can lead to an increased formation of root nodules. This effect can further improve the efficiency of nitrogen fixation, which optimizes the overall growth conditions of the plant. Such an improvement in symbiosis can result in a reduced dependence on chemical fertilizers, which contributes to more sustainable agricultural practices. The protein hydrolysate of the present invention can be of animal, microbial, or plant origin. Preferably, the protein hydrolysate is an animal protein hydrolysate. This BE2024 / 5939 7The origin can contribute to the biodegradability and environmental compatibility of the protein hydrolysate. These benefits make the hydrolysate particularly suitable for sustainable agricultural practices. Examples of animal protein hydrolysates are protein hydrolysates derived from poultry, cattle, sheep, pigs, pets, birds, fur animals, fish, insects, crustaceans and shellfish, or animal species such as deer or camels. The protein hydrolysate can also be derived from animal slaughter waste, such as slaughter waste from poultry, pigs, cattle, fish, sheep, blood, offal, hides, feathers, hooves, heads, or other waste material that is not suitable for human consumption. In a preferred form, the protein hydrolysate is derived from animal slaughter waste, such as blood, hides, offal, feathers, legs, and bones, preferably blood. 15 In a form it is the protein hydrolysate derived from animal blood. In a form it is the protein hydrolysate derived from poultry slaughter waste, such as blood, skins, entrails, feathers, feet, and / or bones of chickens, ducks, orturkeys.20 In one form, the protein hydrolysate is derived from poultry blood. In another aspect, the invention concerns a method for producing a protein hydrolysate as described herein. The protein hydrolysate can be obtained25 by means of enzymatic, thermal or chemical hydrolysis. The term "thermal hydrolysis" refers to a method for breaking down chemical compounds with the aid of heat. 30 The term "enzymatic hydrolysis" refers to a process in which enzymes are used to break down chemical compounds, resulting in the formation of a hydrolysate. In one form, the method comprises the steps of:35 a. providing a protein-rich material and water; b. thermally hydrolyzing the protein-rich material, whereby a protein hydrolysate is obtained. BE2024 / 5939 8 In an execution form, the resulting protein hydrolysate is treated with peroxides. This can deodorize the protein hydrolysate. The protein-rich material can be, for example, slaughterhouse waste. This waste can consist offeathers, organs, bones, blood, hooves, and other parts of the animal that are not intended for human consumption. In a further form, the protein hydrolysate of protein-rich material can be further treated to increase the concentration of certain beneficial components, 10 or to remove unwanted components. For example, the protein hydrolysate can be filtered to remove solid particles, or it can be centrifuged to separate heavier components. It can also be treated with enzymes to further promote the breakdown of proteins into peptides and amino acids, or it can be treated with acids or bases to regulate the pH.15 In a further form, an enzymatic hydrolysis or a chemical hydrolysis, preferably an enzymatic hydrolysis, is also performed on the protein-rich material. 20 The enzymatic hydrolysis of protein-rich material can be performed using various types of enzymes, such as pepsin, trypsin, pancreatin, keratinase, and papain, where the choice of enzyme may depend on the specific type.protein-rich material that is used. This combination of enzymatic and thermal hydrolysis can result in a higher yield of low-molecular-weight peptides.25 In a second aspect, the invention concerns a composition comprising a protein hydrolysate as described above, and an inoculum-enclosing bacteria. The bacteria are preferably nitrogen-fixing bacteria, and even more preferably30 symbiotic or associative nitrogen-fixing bacteria. The symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria can be selected from: Rhizobium spp., Bradyrhizobium spp., Sinorhizobium spp., Mesorhizobium spp., Azorhizobium spp. Frankiaspp.(actinorhiza),Allorhizobiumspp.,Neorhizobiumspp.,preferably selected35 fromRhizobiumleguminosarum,Rhizobiumphaseoli,Rhizobiumtrifolii,Rhizobiumetli,Rhizobiumgalegae,Bradyrhizobiumjaponicum,Bradyrhizobiumelkanii, Bradyrhizobiumliaoningense,Bradyrhizobiumyuanmingense,Sinorhizobiummeliloti, BE2024 / 5939 9 Sinorhizobiumfredii,Sinorhizobiumsaheli,Mesorhizobiumloti,Mesorhizobiumciceri,Mesorhizobiummediterraneum,Azorhizobiumcaulinodans,Azorhizobium doebereinerae,Frankiaalni,Frankiacasuarinae,Frankiadiscariae,Frankiacoriariae, Allorhizobiumundicola,Neorhizobiumgalegae. 5 Deassociatiefstikstoffixerendebacteriënkunnengekozenzijnuit:Azospirillumspp., Herbaspirillumspp.,Gluconacetobacterspp.,Azoarcusspp.,Burkholderiaspp., Enterobacterspp.,Klebsiellaspp.,Pseudomonasspp.,bijvoorkeurgekozenuit Azospirillumbrasilense,Azospirillumlipoferum,Azospirillumamazonense,Azospirillum10 halopraeferens,Herbaspirillumseropedicae,Herbaspirillumfrisingense,Herbaspirillum rubrisubalbicans,Gluconacetobacterdiazotrophicus,Gluconacetobacterjohannae, Azoarcusindigens,Azoarcuscommunis,Azoarcusolearius,Burkholderiavietnamiensis, Burkholderiakururiensis,Burkholderiatropica,Enterobactercloacae,Enterobacter asburiae,Klebsiellapneumoniae,Klebsiellaoxytoca,Pseudomonasstutzeri,15 Pseudomonasfluorescens. Ineenvoorkeursvormomvatdesamenstellingeeninoculumomvattendesymbiotischenitrogen-fixing bacteria. Virtually all symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria work with plants that form nitrogen root nodules. The root nodules are formed under the influence of nitrogen-fixing bacteria from, among others, the genera Rhizobium spp., Bradyrhizobium spp., Sinorhizobium spp., Mesorhizobium spp., Azorhizobium spp., Frankia spp. (Actinorhiza), Allorhizobium spp., and Neorhizobium spp., which live in these nodules in mutualistic symbiosis with the plant; the bacteria receive sugar from the plant. With the help of nitrogenase, they fix nitrogen (N2) from the air into ammonia (NH3) for these plants. The ammonia formed is, by other species of free-living bacteria, soil bacteria, further converted via so-called nitrification into the nitrogen compound nitrate, which the plant, dissolved in soil moisture, can absorb through its roots. The nitrogen-fixing bacteria derive their energy from glucose that the plant assimilates during photosynthesis. In one form, the composition comprises an inoculum-encompassing symbioticnitrogen-fixing bacteria selected from Rhizobium spp., Bradyrhizobium spp., 35 Sinorhizobium spp., Mesorhizobium spp., Azorhizobium spp. Frankias pp. (actinorhiza), Allorhizobium spp., Neorhizobium spp., preferably selected from Rhizobium spp., BE2024 / 5939 10 Bradyrhizobium spp., or a combination thereof, and most preferably Bradyrhizobium spp.. In another or further execution form, the composition comprises an inoculum containing the symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria selected from Rhizobium 5 leguminosarum, Rhizobium phase oli, Rhizobium trifolii, Rhizobium etli, Rhizobium galegae, Bradyrhizobium japonicum, Bradyrhizobium umelkanii, Bradyrhizobium liaoningense, Bradyrhizobium yuanmingense, or a combination thereof. In another or further execution form, the composition comprises an inoculum10 comprising the symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria chosen from Bradyrhizobium japonicum, Bradyrhizobium umelkanii, Bradyrhizobium liaoningense, Bradyrhizobium yuanmingense, or a combination thereof. In a third aspect, the protein hydrolysate or the composition as above15described and used in agricultural applications. Agricultural applications include, among others, seed treatment, seed coating, soil conditioning, and application in liquid fertilizers. When sowing plants, farmers can treat seeds with a protein hydrolysate or a compound as described above. The use of this protein hydrolysate or compound ensures that the seeds get an optimal start, which results in stronger root growth and better resistance to stress in the early growth phase. It has been shown that the protein hydrolysate stimulates the early formation of nitrogen root nodules, which is beneficial for effective nitrogen fixation during the growing season, and which further results in increased above-ground plant mass. Seed coating is a specific method of seed treatment in which a visible, often thicker layer is applied around the seed. A protein hydrolysate or a compound as described above can be combined with liquid fertilizers and applied directly around the seeds during sowing.are applied. In this way, the protein hydrolysate or the composition provides a combination of directly available nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium, along with other benefits for the young plants. This approach ensures that the seedlings have sufficient nutrients and protection from the start, 35 thereby maximizing growth opportunities, especially in soil where nutrient availability is limited. BE2024 / 5939 11 A protein hydrolysate or a compound as described above can also be used to improve soil quality prior to sowing. By adding the protein hydrolysate or compound to the soil, the seeds sown later receive an optimal start, which results in stronger root growth and better resistance to stress in the early growth phase. It has been shown that the protein hydrolysate stimulates the early formation of nitrogen root nodules, which is beneficial for effective nitrogen fixation during the growing season, and which further results in increased above-ground plant mass.In one form, the protein hydrolysate or the composition is used in a seed treatment. The seed treatment can include a seed coating, a dipping of the seeds, a mist treatment, a slurry treatment, or a vacuum filtration. In one form, the protein hydrolysate or the composition is used in a seed coating. When coating seeds, the protein hydrolysate or a solution thereof with a binder can be used to apply to the seed. The hydrolysate can be added to the seeds in a drum mixer. While the seeds rotate, a thin layer of liquid is applied evenly, optionally in combination with powders such as clay or minerals, which adhere to the liquid. In one form, the protein hydrolysate is used in an immersion treatment. In an immersion treatment, the seeds are submerged in the protein hydrolysate for a specified period. The seeds are dried after immersion before being sown. In one form, the protein hydrolysate is used in a mist treatment.In a mist treatment, seeds are treated by misting them with the protein hydrolysate or a solution thereof. The seeds are placed in a rotating drum or a special machine, while a fine mist of the liquid is sprayed over the seeds. This ensures even treatment without the seeds becoming wet. In a version, the protein hydrolysate is used in a slurry treatment. In a slurry treatment, the seeds are dipped into a thick liquid suspension (slurry) and passed through it containing the protein hydrolysate or a solution thereof. This method provides good adhesion and ensures that the seed is covered. After the application of the slurry, the seeds can be dried to ensure that they are easier to handle and do not clump together. In one form, the protein hydrolysate is used in vacuum filtration. During vacuum infiltration, the seeds are placed in the protein hydrolysate or a solution thereof, and subsequently the air is removed from the seeds using avacuum pump. This allows the protein hydrolysate or a solution thereof to penetrate deep into the seed tissues, which is particularly beneficial for seeds with a hard shell. After the vacuum, the pressure is normalized again, whereby the protein hydrolysate or a solution thereof is effectively drawn into the seed.10 In a specific form, the protein hydrolysate or the composition is used separately, sequentially, or simultaneously with the sowing of seeds. Here, the protein hydrolysate or the composition is applied to the soil prior to sowing the seeds, simultaneously with sowing the seeds, or after sowing the seeds. In one form, the protein hydrolysate can be added to a fertilizer or soil conditioner and applied to the soil prior to sowing the seeds. In this case, the hydrolysate can be applied to the soil up to a maximum of 30 days before sowing the seeds, preferably a maximum of 14 days. In another or further form, the protein hydrolysate is used separately, sequentially, or simultaneously with the sowing of seeds, whereby ainoculum-enclosing bacteria are applied separately, sequentially, or simultaneously with the sowing of seeds on top of or in the soil. In this case, the protein hydrolysate is applied to the soil prior to sowing the seeds, simultaneously with sowing the seeds, or after sowing the seeds, and can also be applied to the soil prior to sowing the seeds, simultaneously with sowing the seeds, or after sowing the seeds.30 In a preferred form, the composition comprising the protein hydrolysate and the inoculum is used as a seed coating, whereby the protein hydrolysate is applied in an amount of up to 0.3 µL / seed, preferably even up to 0.2 µL / seed. Preferably, the protein hydrolysate has a dry matter content between 10 and 20. wt.%, preferably between 12 and 18 wt.%.35 In a formulation form, the protein hydrolysate or the composition is used for seeds of plants or crops that can have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing BE2024 / 5939 13 bacteria. In a further formulation form, the protein hydrolysate isor the composition used for seeds of plants or crops chosen from Actinohiza plants, and legumes. Actinohiza plants are a group of angiosperms characterized by their ability to form a symbiotic relationship with the nitrogen-fixing bacterium Frankia. Actinohiza plants include plants from the families Coriaria family (Coriariaceae), Datiscaceae, Birch family (Betulaceae), Casuarinaceae, Bog myrtle family (Myricaceae), Sea buckthorn family (Elaeagnaceae), Buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae), Rose family (Rosaceae). Legumes include plants from the families Fabaceae, Polygalaceae, Quillajaceae, and Surianaceae. 15 In an formulation form, the protein hydrolysate or the composition is used for seeds of plants or crops that form nitrogen root nodules. Preferably, the protein hydrolysate or the composition is used for plants or crops selected from the Leguminosae family (Fabaceae), Coriaria family (Coriariaceae), Datiscaceae,Berkenfamilie (Betulaceae), Casuarinaceae, Gagelfamilie (Myricaceae), 20 duindoornfamilie (Elaeagnaceae), Wegedoornfamilie (Rhamnaceae), Rozenfamilie (Rosaceae). Specific plants or crops can be chosen from the genera: Coriaria, Datisca, Alnus, Allocasuarina, Casuarina, Ceuthostoma, Gymnostoma, Comptonia, Myrica, 25 Elaeagnus, Hippophae, Shepherdia, Adolphia, Colletia, Discaria, Kentrothamnus, Retanilla, Talguenea, Trevoa, Ochetophila, Ceanothus, Cercocarpus, Chamaebatia, Cowania, Dryas, Purshia, Caesalpinia, Cercis, Detarium, Dialium, Duparquetia, Faboideae, Polygala, Dakotatanthus, Quillaja, Suriana., preferably Coriaria, Datisca, Alnus, Allocasuarina, Casuarina, Ceuthostoma, Gymnostoma, Comptonia, Myrica, 30 Elaeagnus, Hippophae, Shepherdia, Colletia, Discaria, Ceanothus, Cercocarpus, Cowania,Purshia,Caesalpinia,Cercis,Detarium,Dialium,Duparquetia,Abrus, Acmispon,Acosmium,Adenocarpus,Adenodolichos,Adesmia,Aenictophyton, Aeschynomene,Afgekia,Aganope,Airyantha,Aldina,Alexa,Alhagi,Alistilus,Almaleea,Alysicarpus, Amburana, Amicia, Ammodendron, Ammopiptanthus, Ammothamnus, 35 Amphiodon, Amorpha, Amphicarpaea, Amphimus, Amphithalea, Anagyris, Anarthrophyllum, Ancistrotropis, Andira, Angylocalyx, Antheroporum, Anthyllis, BE2024 / 5939 14 Argyrocytisus, Argyrolobium, Arthroclianthus, Aspalathus, Astragalus, Ateleia, Austrocallerya, Austrodolichos, Austrosteenisia, Baphia, Baphiastrum, Baphiopsis, Baptisia, Barbieria, Behaimia, Bionia, Bituminaria, Bobgunnia, Bocoa, Bolusafra, Bolusanthus, Bolusia, Bossiaea, Bowdichia, Bowringia, Brongniartia, Brya, Bryaspis, Burkilliodendron, Butea, Cadia, Cajanus, Callia, Calicotome, Calleria, Callistachys, 5 Calobota, Calophaca, Calopogonium, Calpurnia, Camoensia, Camptosema, Campylotropis, Canavalia, Candolleodendron, Caragana, Carmichaelia, Carrissoa, Chadsia, Chaetocalyx, Chamaecytisus, Chapmannia, Chesneya, Chorizema, Christia, Cicer, Cladrastis,Clathrotropis, Cleobulia, Clianthus, Clitoria, Clitoriopsis, Cochlianthus, Cochliasanthus, 10 Codariocalyx, Collaea, Cologania, Colutea, Condylostylis, Cordyla, Coronilla, Coursetia, Craibia, Cranocarpus, Craspedolobium, Cratylia, Cristonia, Crotalaria, Cruddasia, Cullen, 15 Desmodiastrum, Desmodium, Dewevrea, Dichylus, Dicraeopetalum, Dillwynia, Dioclea, Diphyllarium, Diphysa, Diplotropis, Dipogon, Dipteryx, Discolobium, Disynstemon, Dolichopsis, Dolichos, Dorycnium, Droogmansia, Dumasia, Dunbaria, Dussia, Dysolobium, Ebenus, Echinospartum, Eleiotis, Eminia, Endosamara, Eremosparton, Erichsenia, Erinacea, Eriosema, Errazurizia, Erythrina, Etaballia, Euchilopsis, Euchlora, 20 Euchresta, Eutaxia, Eversmannia, Exostyles, Eysenhardtia, Ezoloba, Fairchildia,Fiebrigiella,Fissicalyx,Flemingia,Fordia,Galactia,Galega,Gastrolobium,Geissaspis,Genista,Genistidium,Geoffroea,Gliricidia,Glycine,Glycyrrhiza,Gompholobium,Gonocytisus,Goodia,Grazielodendron,Guianodendron,Gueldenstaedtia,Halimodendron,Hammatolobium,Haplormosia,Hardenbergia,Harleyodendron,25 Harpalyce,Hebestigma,Hedysarum,Helicotropis,Herpyza,Hesperolaburnum,Hippocrepis,Hoita,Holocalyx,Hosackia,Hovea,Huangtcia,Humularia,Hymenocarpos,Hymenolobium,Hypocalyptus,Indigastrum,Indigofera,Inocarpus,Isotropis,Jacksonia,Kanburia,Kennedia,Kotschya,Kummerowia,Lablab,Laburnocytisus,Laburnum, Lackeya, Ladeania, Lamprobium, Lathyrus, Latrobea, Lebeckia, Lecointea, 30 Lembotropis, Lennea, Lens, Leobordea, Leptoderris, Leptodesmia, Leptolobium, Leptosema, Leptospron, Lespedeza, Lessertia, Leucomphalos, Limadendron, Liparia, Listia, Lonchocarpus, Lotononis, Lotus, Luetzelburgia, Lupinus, Luzonia, Maackia, Machaerium, Macropsychanthus, Macroptilium, Macrotyloma, Maraniona,Margaritolobium, Marina, Mastersia, Mecopus, Medicago, Melilotus, Melliniella, 35 Melolobium, Microcharis, Mildbraediodendron, Millettia, Mirbelia, Monopteryx, Mucuna, Muellera, Muelleranthus, Mundulea, Myrocarpus, Myrospermum, Mysanthus, Nanhaia, Neocollettia, Neoharmsia, Neonotonia, Neorautanenia, Neorudolphia, Nephrodesmus, BE2024 / 5939 15. Oxyrhynchus, Oxytropis, Pachyrhizus, Padbruggea, Panurea, Paracalyx, Paragoodia, Paramachaerium, Parochetus, Parryella, Pearsonia, Pediomelum, Pedleya, Periandra,5 Pericopsis, Petaladenium, Peteria, Petteria, Phaseolus, Phylacium, Phyllodium, Phyllota, Phylloxylon, Physostigma, Pickeringia, Pictetia, Piptanthus, Piscidia, Pisum, Plagiocarpus, Platycelyphium, Platycyamus, Platylobium, Platymiscium, Platypodium, Platysepalum, Podalyria, Podocytisus, Podolobium, Poecilanthe, Poiretia, Poitea,Polhillia,Polhillides,Pongamiopsis,Pseudarthria,Pseudeminia,Pseudoeriosema,10 Pseudovigna,Psophocarpus,Psoralea,Psorothamnus,Pterocarpus,Pterodon, Ptycholobium,Ptychosema,Pueraria,Pultenaea,Pullenia,Pycnospora,Pyranthus, Rafnia,Ramirezella,Ramorinoa,Retama,Rhodopis,Rhynchosia,Rhynchotropis, Riedeliella,Robinia,Robynsiophyton,Rothia,Rupertia,Sakoanala,Salweenia, Sarcodum,Sartoria,Schefflerodendron,Scorpiurus,Sellocharis,Sesbania,Shuteria,15 Sigmoidala,Sigmoidotropis,Sinodolichos,Smirnowia,Smithia,Soemmeringia, Sophora,Spartium,Spathionema,Spatholobus,Sphaerolobium,Sphaerophysa, Sphenostylis,Sphinctospermum,Spirotropis,Spongiocarpella,Stauracanthus, Staminodianthus,Steinbachiella,Stirtonanthus,Stonesiella,Streblorrhiza, Strongylodon,Strophostyles,Stylosanthes,Styphnolobium,Swainsona,Swartzia,20 Sweetia,Sylvichadsia,Syrmatium,Tabaroa,Tadehagi,Taralea,Taverniera, Templetonia,Tephrosia,Teramnus,Teyleria,Thermopsis,Thinicola,Tipuana,Trifidacanthus, Trifolium, Trigonella, Tripodion, Trischidium, Uleanthus, Ulex, Uraria, Uribea, Urodon, Vandasina, Vatairea, Vataireopsis, Vatovaea, Vavilovia, Vermifrux, Verdesmum, Vicia, Vigna, Viminaria, Virgilia, Vuralia, Wajira, Weberbauerella, 25 Whitforddiodendron, Wiborgia, Wiborgiella, Wisteria, Wisteriopsis, Xanthocercis, Xiphotheca, Zollernia, Zornia, Zygocarpum. A worker's main wordtheteiwithyhydrolysatofthesecombinationusedfor the wild plantsof thewassenuitdevlinderbloemenfamily(Fabaceae),onemore30 specifiekdeonderfamilywaterFaboideae,coveringgenerations:Abrus, Acmispon,Acosmium,Adenocarpus,Adenodolichos,Adesmia,Aenictophyton,Aeschynomene,Afgekia,Aganope,Airyantha,Aldina,Alexa,Alhagi,Alistilus,Almaleea, Alysicarpus, Amburana, Amicia, Ammodendron, Ammopiptanthus, Ammothamnus, Amphiodon, Amorpha, Amphicarpaea, Amphimus, Amphithalea, Anagyris, Anthopetitia,Aotus,Aphyllodium,Celery,Apoplanesia,Apurimacia,Arachis,Argyrocytisus,Argyrolobium,Arthroclianthus,Aspalathus,Astragalus,Ateleia, BE2024 / 5939 16 Austrocallerya,Austrodolichos,Austrosteenisia,Baphia,Baphiastrum,Baphiopsis, Baptisia,Barbieria,Behaimia,Bionia,Bituminaria,Bobgunnia,Bocoa,Bolusafra, Bolusanthus,Bolusia,Bossiaea,Bowdichia,Bowringia,Brongniartia,Brya,Bryaspis, Burkilliodendron,Butea,Cadia,Cajanus,Calia,Calicotome,Callerya,Callistachys, Calobota,Calophaca,Calopogonium,Calpurnia,Camoensia,Camptosema,5 Campylotropis,Canavalia,Candolleodendron,Caragana,Carmichaelia,Carrissoa, Cascaronia,Castanospermum,Centrolobium,Centrosema,Chadsia,Chaetocalyx, Chamaecytisus,Chapmannia,Chesneya,Chorizema,Christia,Cicer,Cladrastis, Clathrotropis,Cleobulia,Clianthus,Clitoria,Clitoriopsis,Cochlianthus,Cochliasanthus, Codariocalyx,Collaea,Cologania,Colutea,Condylostylis,Cordyla,Coronilla,Coursetia,10 Craibia,Cranocarpus,Craspedolobium,Cratylia,Cristonia,Crotalaria,Cruddasia,Cullen, Cyamopsis,Cyathostegia,Cyclocarpa,Cyclolobium,Cyclopia,Cymbosema,Cytisophyllum,Cytisopsis,Cytisus,Dahlstedtia,Dalbergia,Dalbergiella,Dalea,Dalhousiea,Daprainia,Daviesia,Decorsea,Dendrolobium,Derris,Dermatophyllum, Desmodiastrum,Desmodium,Dewevrea,Dichilus,Dicraeopetalum,Dillwynia,Dioclea,15 Diphyllarium,Diphysa,Diplotropis,Dipogon,Dipteryx,Discolobium,Disynstemon,Dolichopsis,Dolichos,Dorycnium,Droogmasia,Dumasia,Dussia,Dussia,Dussia Dysolobium,Ebenus,Echinospartum,Eleiotis,Eminia,Endosamara,Eremosparton,Erichsenia,Erinacea,Eriosema,Errazurizia,Erythrina,Etaballia,Euchilopsis,Euchlora, Euchresta,Eutaxia,Eversmannia,Exostyles,Eysenhardtia,Ezoloba,Fairchilddia,20 Fiebrigiella,Fissicalyx,Flemingia,Fordia,Galactia,Galega,Gastrolobium,Geissaspis, Genista,Genistidium,Geoffroea,Gliricidia,Glycine,Glycyrrhiza,Gompholobium,Gonocytisus,Goodia,Grazielodendron,Guianodendron,Gueldenstaedtia,Halimodendron,Hammatolobium,Haplormosia,Hardenbergia,Harleyodendron, Harpalyce,Hebestigma,Hedysarum,Helicotropis,Herpyza,Hesperolaburnum,25Hippocrepis,Hoita,Holocalyx,Hosackia,Hovea,Huangtcia,Humularia,Hymenocarpos, Hymenolobium,Hypocalyptus,Indigastrum,Indigofera,Inocarpus,Isotropis,Jacksonia, Kanburia,Kennedia,Kotschya,Kummerowia,Lablab,Laburnocytisus,Laburnum, Lackeya,Ladeania,Lamprolobium,Lathyrus,Latrobea,Lebeckia,Lecointea, Lembotropis,Lennea,Lens,Leobordea,Leptoderris,Leptodesmia,Leptolobium,30 Leptosema,Leptospron,Lespedeza,Lessertia,Leucomphalos,Limadendron,Liparia, Listia,Lonchocarpus,Lotononis,Lotus,Luetzelburgia,Lupinus,Luzonia,Maackia, Machaerium,Macropsychanthus,Macroptilium,Macrotyloma,Maraniona, Margaritolobium,Marina,Mastersia,Mecopus,Medicago,Melilotus,Melliniella, Melolobium,Microcharis,Mildbraediodendron,Millettia,Mirbelia,Monopteryx,Mucuna,35 Muellera,Muelleranthus,Mundulea,Myrocarpus,Myrospermum,Mysanthus,Nanhaia, Neocollettia,Neoharmsia,Neonotonia,Neorautanenia,Neorudolphia,Nephrodesmus, Nesphostylis,Nissolia,Nogra,Oberholzeria,Olneya,Onobrychis,Ononis,Ophrestia, BE2024 / 5939 17Orbexilum, Oreophysa, Ormocarpopsis, Ormocarpum, Ormosia, Orphanodendron, Ornithopus, Oryxis, Ostryocarpus, Otholobium, Otoptera, Ottleya, Oxylobium, Oxyrhynchus, Oxytropis, Pachyrhizus, Padbruggea, Panurea, Paracalyx, Paragoodia, Paramachaerium, Parochetus, Parryella, Pearsonia, Pediomelum, Pedleya, Periandra, Pericopsis, Petaladenium, Peteria, Petteria, Phaseolus, Phylacium, Phyllodium, Phyllota, 5 Phylloxylon, Physostigma, Pickeringia, Pictetia, Piptanthus, Piscidia, Pisum, Plagiocarpus, Platycelyphium, Platycyamus, Platylobium, Platymiscium, Platypodium, Platysepalum, Podalyria, Podocytisus, Podolobium, Poecilanthe, Poiretia, Poitea, Polhillia, Polhillides, Pongamiopsis, Pseudarthria, Pseudeminia, Pseudoeriosema, Pseudovigna, Psophocarpus, Psoralea, Psorothamnus, Pterocarpus, Pterodon, 10 Ptycholobium, Ptychosema, Pueraria, Pultenaea, Pullenia, Pycnospora, Pyranthus, Rafnia, Ramirezella, Ramorinoa, Retama, Rhodopis, Rhynchosia, Rhynchotropis, Riedeliella, Robinia, Robynsiophyton, Rothia, Rupertia, Sakoanala, Salweenia,Sarcodum,Sartoria,Schefflerodendron,Scorpiurus,Sellocharis,Sesbania,Shuteria, Sigmoidala,Sigmoidotropis,Sinodolichos,Smirnowia,Smithia,Soemmeringia,15 Sophora,Spartium,Spathionema,Spatholobus,Sphaerolobium,Sphaerophysa, Sphenostylis,Sphinctospermum,Spirotropis,Spongiocarpella,Stauracanthus, Staminodianthus,Steinbachiella,Stirtonanthus,Stonesiella,Streblorrhiza, Strongylodon,Strophostyles,Stylosanthes,Styphnolobium,Swainsona,Swartzia, Sweetia,Sylvichadsia,Syrmatium,Tabaroa,Tadehagi,Taralea,Taverniera,20 Templetonia,Tephrosia,Teramnus,Teyleria,Thermopsis,Thinicola,Tipuana, Trifidacanthus,Trifolium,Trigonella,Tripodion,Trischidium,Uleanthus,Ulex,Uraria, Uribea,Urodon,Vandasina,Vatairea,Vataireopsis,Vatovaea,Vavilovia,Vermifrux, Verdesmum,Vicia,Vigna,Viminaria,Virgilia,Vuralia,Wajira,Weberbauerella, Whitfordiodendron,Wiborgia,Wiborgiella,Wisteria,Wisteriopsis,Xanthocercis,25 Xiphotheca,Zollernia,Zornia,Zygocarpum. Ineenuitvoeringsvormwordtheteiwithydrolysaatofdesamenstellinggebruiktvoorseeds of plants or crops from the genera Glycine, such as Glycine albicans, Glycine aphyonotos, Glycinearenaria, Glycineargyrea, Glycinecanescens, Glycineclandestina, 30 Glycinecurvata, Glycinecyrtoloba, Glycinedolichocarpa, Glycinefalcata, Glycinegracei, Glycinehirticaulis,Glycinehirticaulissubsp.leptosa,Glycinekoidzumii,Glycine lactovirens,Glycinelatifolia,Glycinelatrobeana,Glycinemicrophylla,Glycinemontis-douglas,Glycineperatosa,Glycinepescadrensis,Glycinepindanica,Glycinepullenii, Glycineremota,Glycinerubiginosa,Glycinestenophita,Glycinesyndetika,Glycine35 tabacina, Glycinetomentella, Glycinemax, Glycinesoja. In one form the seeds are soybean seeds (Glycinemax). BE2024 / 5939 18 In one form the seeds are treated with protein hydrolysate in an amount between 0.01 and 100 µL per seed, preferably between 0.1 and 100 µL per seed, even more preferably between 0.1 and 75 µL per seed, more preferably between 0.1 and 50 µL per seed, even more preferably between 0.1 and 25 µL per seed, another 5more preferably between 0.1 and 20 µL per seed, and most preferably between 0.1 and 10 µL per seed. Preferably, the protein hydrolysate has a dry matter content between 10 and 20 wt.%, preferably between 12 and 18 wt.%. In a formulation, the seeds are treated with protein hydrolysate in an amount between 0.01 and 15 g dry matter per seed, preferably between 0.01 and 10 g dry matter per seed, even more preferably between 0.01 and 1 g dry matter per seed, even more preferably between 0.1 and 1 g dry matter per seed. 15 The bacteria present in the inoculum can differ depending on the seeds that need to be optimized. Each plant has specific symbionts that work best for their root environments and nutritional requirements. For example, soybeans, such as Glycinemax, form a symbiosis with Bradyrhizobium japonicum, while peas (Pisum sativum) thrive better with Rhizobium leguminosarum. For alfalfa (Medicago sativa)20, Sinorhizobium melilot is the most suitable. Blackcurrants (Alnus spp.) have a uniquesymbiosis, in which Frankia helps in the formation of nitrogen root nodules. In another aspect, the invention concerns a method for optimizing seeds. Here, the method involves the sequential, separate, or simultaneous application of a protein hydrolysate or a compound as discussed above to the seeds. In this case, the protein hydrolysate or the compound is applied to the soil prior to sowing the seeds, simultaneously with sowing the seeds, or after sowing the seeds. The simultaneous application may involve a seed treatment in which the seeds are treated prior to sowing with the protein hydrolysate or the compound; or the simultaneous application of the seeds and the protein hydrolysate or the compound separately to the soil. 35 In a formulation form, the protein hydrolysate can be added to a fertilizer or a soil improver and applied to the soil prior to sowing the seeds BE2024 / 5939 19. In this case, the hydrolysate can be applied to the soil up to a maximum of 30 days before sowing the seeds, preferably a maximum of 14 days.In a formulation, the seeds are optimized with protein hydrolysate in an amount between 0.01 and 100 µL per seed, preferably between 0.1 and 1005 µL per seed, even more preferably between 0.1 and 75 µL per seed, more preferably between 0.1 and 50 µL per seed, even more preferably between 0.1 and 25 µL per seed, even more preferably between 0.1 and 20 µL per seed, and most preferably between 0.1 and 10 µL per seed. Preferably, the protein hydrolysate has a dry matter content between 10 and 20 wt.%, preferably between 12 and 18 wt.%.10 In a formulation, the seeds are optimized with protein hydrolysate in an amount between 0.01 and 15 g dry matter per seed, preferably between 0.01 and 10g dry matter per seed, even more preferably between 0.01 and 1g dry matter per seed, more preferably between 0.1 and 1g dry matter per seed, even more preferably between 0.1 and 0.5g dry matter per seed. In another or further form of execution, the method comprises the separate, sequential or simultaneous application of the protein hydrolysate and the seeds to the soil, wherebylikewise, an inoculum-enclosing bacteria is applied separately, sequentially, or simultaneously with the sowing of seeds on top of or in the soil. In this case, the protein hydrolysate is applied to the soil prior to sowing the seeds, simultaneously with sowing the seeds, or after sowing the seeds. The inoculum can contain bacteria as in the implementation forms described above. In one implementation form, the method involves optimizing seeds where the seeds originate from plants or crops that can have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Preferably chosen from Actinorhiza plants and legumes, as in the implementation forms described above. In a preferred form, the protein hydrolysate is produced if an inoculum-enclosing symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria is administered simultaneously, in a quantity of maximum 0.3 µL / seed, preferably even maximum 0.2 µL / seed.administered. Preferably, the protein hydrolysate has a dry matter content between 10 and 20 wt.%, preferably between 12 and 18 wt.%. BE2024 / 5939 20 In one aspect, the invention concerns a method for increasing nitrogen uptake in seeds and / or plants or crops. This can be done by implementation forms as described above. In one implementation form, the seeds of the plants or crops, when sown, are treated with a protein hydrolysate as described above, preferably the seeds are coated with the protein hydrolysate. In this method, a symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria comprising an inoculum can also be sown with the seeds.10 In another or further aspect, the invention concerns a method for increasing the growth rate in plants or crops. In another or further aspect, the invention concerns a method for increasing the number of root nodules in plants. or crops. In another or further aspect, the invention concerns a method for increasing the number of pods in plants or crops.In what follows, the invention is described by means of non-limiting examples that illustrate the invention, and which are not intended or should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the invention.20 EXAMPLES Example 1 In this experiment, it was investigated whether seed treatment (A) with a protein hydrolysate25 according to a form of the invention has an influence on the growth of soybeans (variety: Acardia) in comparison with an untreated control (C). For this study, an oligotrophic mineral substrate was used, in which replicate pots were set up, each with three soybean plants. The protein hydrolysate was obtained from chicken blood by clotting, boiling, and centrifuging the chicken blood, so that serum was obtained. Subsequently, the serum was subjected to thermal and enzymatic hydrolysis. The seed treatment consisted of dipping each seed in 1 µL of protein hydrolysate with a dry matter content of 15 wt.%, while the control received no single treatment. All seeds were subsequently planted in the same type.substrate to uniform the growth conditions. In addition, the plants were inoculated BE2024 / 5939 21 with Bradyrhizobium japonicum, a bacterium known for its symbiotic relationship with soybeans and its ability to fix nitrogen. Plant height The seed treatment led to an increase in the growth rate of the shoots by 5 20%. This is also shown in Figure 1, in which the plant height in cm is plotted as a function of the number of days after emergence of the seedlings. Root length and mass The seed treatment led to an increase in the root mass. This is also shown in Figures 2A and 2B, in which the root length and mass (g dry matter) before the control and the seed treatment is shown. Number of pods The seed treatment led to an increase in the number of pods on the plants. This is also shown in Figure 3, which displays the number of pods before the control and the seed treatment. The dry weight of the pods was also higher in the plants that had undergone seed treatment. Number of root nodules The seed treatment led to an increase in the number of root nodules by 66%.This is also shown in Figure 4A, in which the number of nodules for the control and the seed treatment is shown. Figures 4B and 4C show the nodules of the control groups and the seed treatment, respectively. Also, the dry weight of the nodules was higher in the plants that had undergone a seed treatment.25 Example 2 The experiment from Example 1 was repeated but with four different test setups: untreated (C), seed treatment (A), Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculum (R), and a seed treatment in combination with Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculum (A+R).30 Plant height The seed treatment in combination with inoculum led to a significant increase in the growth rate of the shoots compared to the control (already from four weeks after sowing) but also compared to Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculum alone35 (especially from 9 weeks after sowing). This is also shown in Figure 5, in which the plant height in cm is plotted as a function of the number of weeks after sowing. BE2024 / 5939 22 Number of root nodules The seed treatment in combination with a Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculum led toto an increase in the number of root nodules compared to Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculum alone. This is also shown in Figure 6, in which the number of nodules for Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculum alone and the seed treatment in combination with Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculum is shown. As well as the dry weight of the nodules being higher in the plants that had undergone seed treatment. Number of pods10 The seed treatment in combination with Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculum also led to an increase in the number of pods compared to Bradyrhizobium japonicum inoculum alone. This is also shown in