Functional component increaser and method for applying functional component increaser

Abstract

To achieve effective increase of a functional component.SOLUTION: A functional component increaser (Fi) having a solution with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM or more and 1000 mM or less.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a functional component increaser and a method for applying the functional component increaser. [Background technology]

[0002] Many plants contain various functional components. For example, amino acids contained in agricultural crops are known to have various effects such as muscle building, improving sleep quality, stress relief, and immune system enhancement.

[0003] There is a demand for increasing the amount of effective functional components contained in agricultural crops. For example, functional component increasers have been studied that can increase the amount of functional components in plants by appropriately spraying or irrigating the plants (see, for example, Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 describes a functional component increaser for plants that can increase the amount of functional components in plants. The functional component increaser of Patent Document 1 contains a specific oxo fatty acid derivative or its salt as an active ingredient, thereby increasing polyphenols, lutein, beta-carotene, etc. in vegetables. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2020 / 054630 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The functional ingredient increaser of Patent Document 1 is required to contain a specific oxo fatty acid derivative or its salt as an active ingredient, and it may take effort to synthesize the ingredients contained in such a functional ingredient increaser.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a functional component increaser that can effectively increase the amount of a functional component, and a method for applying the functional component increaser. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, the functional component increaser has a solution having an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM or more and 1000 mM or less.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method includes a step of applying to agricultural crops a functional component increaser having a solution with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM or more and 1000 mM or less. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, the amount of functional ingredients can be effectively increased. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1(a) to 1(c) are schematic diagrams showing a method for preparing a functional component increaser of the present embodiment. [Figure 2] 1(a) to 1(c) are schematic diagrams showing a method for applying a functional component increase agent according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase of each amino acid component in Komatsuna leaves in Example 1. [Figure 4A] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase of each amino acid component in cabbage leaves in Example 2. [Figure 4B] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in amino acid components in cabbage leaves in Example 2. [Figure 5] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase of each amino acid component in cabbage leaves in Example 3. [Figure 6] Graphs (a) and (b) show the rate of increase in amino acid components in cabbage leaves in Example 4. [Figure 7]Graphs (a) and (b) show the rate of increase in amino acid components in cabbage leaves in Example 5. [Figure 8A] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in amino acid components due to seedling treatment in Example 6. [Figure 8B] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in amino acid components by foliar spray in addition to seedling treatment in Example 6. [Figure 8C] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in amino acid components depending on the seedling treatment time in Example 6. [Figure 9A] 1 is a graph showing the length from the ground to the shoot tip of broccoli as a function of ammonium nitrogen concentration in Example 7. [Figure 9B] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in amino acid components in broccoli leaves in Example 7. [Figure 9C] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in amino acid components in broccoli leaves in Example 7. [Figure 10] (a) is a graph showing the rate of increase in amino acid components in broccoli florets after ammonium sulfate treatment in Example 8, and (b) is a graph showing the rate of increase in amino acid components in broccoli florets after urea treatment in Example 8. [Figure 11A] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in amino acid components in sunny lettuce in Example 9. [Figure 11B] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in amino acid components in sunny lettuce in Example 9. [Figure 12A] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in vitamin U in cabbage depending on the method of applying an ammonium sulfate solution in Example 10. [Figure 12B] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in glucose / fructose and sucrose in cabbage depending on the method of applying an ammonium sulfate solution in Example 10. [Figure 12C] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase of each component of amino acids when the method of applying the ammonium sulfate solution is different in Example 10. [Figure 12D]1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in tartaric acid and citric acid in cabbage depending on the method of applying an ammonium sulfate solution in Example 10. [Figure 12E] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase of glucosinolate compounds in cabbage depending on the method of applying an ammonium sulfate solution in Example 10. [Figure 13] 1 is a table showing the amount of amino acids per 100 g of crops grown with the functional ingredient increaser of this example. [Figure 14] 1 is a table showing the increase rate of amino acids when the functional component increaser of this example is added. [Figure 15A] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in amino acids in tomatoes depending on the method of applying an ammonium sulfate solution in Example 11. [Figure 15B] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in ornithine in tomatoes depending on the method of applying an ammonium sulfate solution in Example 11. [Figure 15C] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in vitamin U in tomatoes depending on the method of applying an ammonium sulfate solution in Example 11. [Figure 15D] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in GABA in tomatoes depending on the method of applying an ammonium sulfate solution in Example 11. [Figure 15E] 1 is a graph showing the rate of increase in sucrose in tomatoes depending on the method of applying an ammonium sulfate solution in Example 11. [Figure 16] 10 is a table showing the rate of increase in functional components in tomatoes when the functional component increaser of Example 11 is added. [Figure 17] 1 is a graph showing the leaf expansion speed of cabbage in Example 12. [Figure 18] 1 is a graph showing the amount of plant height elongation of cabbage in Example 12. [Figure 19] 1 is a graph showing the GSL accumulation rate in the edible part of cabbage in Example 12. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the functional component increaser and the method for applying the functional component increaser according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] The functional component increaser of this embodiment will be described. The functional component increaser of this embodiment is a solution containing an ammonia nitrogen component. In this disclosure, "ammonia nitrogen" refers to nitrogen that takes the form of ammonia to provide nitrogen (N) to plants, etc., and is synonymous with ammonia nitrogen, ammoniacal nitrogen, ammonium nitrogen, ammonium-form nitrogen, and ammonium-based nitrogen.

[0013] The functional component increaser contains ammonium nitrogen (ammonia nitrogen). The ammonia nitrogen concentration of the functional component increaser is 100 mM or more and 1000 mM or less. In the present disclosure, "mM" (molar) is a unit of molar concentration, and "mol / dm 3 " The ammonia nitrogen concentration of the functional component increaser is more preferably 150 mM or more, 200 mM or more, 300 mM or more, or 400 mM or more. The ammonia nitrogen concentration of the functional component increaser is more preferably 900 mM or less, 800 mM or less, 700 mM or less, 600 mM or less, or 500 mM or less. The ammonia nitrogen concentration is determined by the ratio of ammonium ions (NH4 + ) and ammonia (NH3) concentrations. For example, ammonia nitrogen concentration is measured using an absorption spectrophotometer.

[0014] Typically, functional ingredient enhancers include ammonium ions (NH4 + ) and ammonia (NH3). For example, the functional component increaser of this embodiment is prepared by dissolving a predetermined amount of ammonium salt in water. In one example, the functional component increaser is prepared by dissolving a predetermined amount of ammonium sulfate in water. Alternatively, the functional component increaser is prepared by dissolving a predetermined amount of urea in water.

[0015] By controlling the ammonia nitrogen concentration to 100 mM or more and 1000 mM or less, the functional components in the crops can be increased. For example, by controlling the ammonia nitrogen concentration to 100 mM or more and 1000 mM or less, the amino acids in the crops can be increased.

[0016] Specifically, an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM or higher increases the nitrogen source in the plant body and increases amino acids, while an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 1000 mM or lower can suppress the increase of toxic components in crops.

[0017] [Ammonia nitrogen] Ammonium sulfate may be dissolved in the solution of the functional component increaser, and the functional component increaser may be an ammonium sulfate solution. In this specification, the treatment of applying an ammonium sulfate solution to agricultural crops as a functional component increaser may be referred to as ammonium sulfate treatment.

[0018] Alternatively, urea may be dissolved in the solution, and the functional component increaser may be a urea solution. In this specification, the treatment of applying a urea solution to agricultural crops as a functional component increaser may be referred to as urea treatment. In this manner, at least one of ammonium sulfate or urea is dissolved in the solution. Furthermore, the ammonia nitrogen concentration in the functional component increaser solution may be adjusted to a desired concentration by dissolving a compound other than ammonium sulfate or urea, such as ammonium phosphate or ammonium nitrate, in the solution. Alternatively, a combination of these may be used.

[0019] The functional component increaser may further contain a nitric acid component in addition to the ammonium component. + ) and ammonia (NH3), as well as nitrate ions (NO2 -). For example, the functional component increaser may have a nitrate nitrogen concentration of 10 mM or more and 200 mM or less. The nitrate nitrogen concentration of the functional component increaser is more preferably 15 mM or more, 20 mM or more, 30 mM or more, or 40 mM or more. The nitrate nitrogen concentration of the functional component increaser is more preferably 150 mM or less, 100 mM or less, 90 mM or less, 80 mM or less, 70 mM or less, 60 mM or less, or 50 mM or less. For example, the nitrate nitrogen concentration in the solution of the functional component increaser may be adjusted to a desired concentration by dissolving a compound such as potassium nitrate, ammonium nitrate, or sodium nitrate in the solution. Alternatively, a combination of these may be used. In the present disclosure, "nitrate nitrogen" refers to nitrogen in the form of nitric acid to provide nitrogen (N) to plants, etc., and is synonymous with nitrate nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, and nitrate nitrogen component.

[0020] [Nitric acid component] Calcium nitrate may be dissolved in the solution of the functional component increaser.

[0021] The functional component increaser of the present embodiment is suitably used to increase a specific functional component in agricultural crops.

[0022] [Crops] The agricultural crops targeted by the functional ingredient increaser may be of the Brassicaceae family. Alternatively, the agricultural crops may be of the Asteraceae family. Alternatively, the agricultural crops targeted by the functional ingredient increaser may be of the Solanaceae family. Thus, the agricultural crops may include at least one of the Brassicaceae family, the Asteraceae family, and the Solanaceae family.

[0023] Specifically, the crops include at least one of komatsuna, cabbage, broccoli, red lettuce, and tomato. Komatsuna is a leafy vegetable crop of the Brassicaceae family. Cabbage is a leafy vegetable crop of the Brassicaceae family. Broccoli is a flower bud crop of the Brassicaceae family. Red lettuce is a leafy vegetable crop of the Asteraceae family.

[0024] The functional component increaser of the present embodiment is suitably used to increase amino acids as specific functional components in agricultural crops. For example, by adding the functional component increaser, at least one type of amino acid in the agricultural crop is increased.

[0025] [amino acid] As described above, the functional component increaser of the present embodiment increases the amino acid content in agricultural crops. The functional component increaser of the present embodiment may increase any one of a plurality of types of amino acids contained in agricultural crops.

[0026] The multiple amino acids increased by the functional component increaser of this embodiment include at least one of isoleucine (Ile), threonine (Thr), tryptophan (Trp), valine (Val), histidine (His), phenylalanine (Phe), methionine (Met), lysine (Lys), leucine (Leu), alanine (Ala), arginine (Arg), asparagine (Asn), aspartic acid (Asp), cysteine ​​(Cys), glutamine (Gln), glutamic acid (Glu), glycine (Gly), proline (Pro), serine (Ser), tyrosine (Tyr), ornithine (Orn), GABA, and vitamin U. Glucosinolate may also be increased by the functional component increaser of this embodiment.

[0027] The functional ingredient increaser of this embodiment can increase the amount of amino acids as functional ingredients, which can lead to muscle building, improved sleep, stress relief, and / or improved immunity.

[0028] Next, a method for producing a functional component increaser of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1(a) to Fig. 1(c) are schematic diagrams showing a method for producing a functional component increaser Fi of this embodiment.

[0029] As shown in Figure 1(a), an ammonia nitrogen-containing compound Ac is added to a solvent Sb contained in a container C1. This causes the ammonia nitrogen-containing compound Ac to dissolve in the solvent Sb. By dissolving a predetermined amount of the ammonia nitrogen-containing compound Ac in a predetermined amount of the solvent Sb, a functional component increaser Fi having an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM to 1000 mM can be prepared.

[0030] The solvent Sb is typically water, but components other than water may be added to the solvent Sb.

[0031] The ammonia nitrogen-containing compound Ac may be any compound. For example, the ammonia nitrogen-containing compound Ac may be ammonium sulfate or urea. However, the ammonia nitrogen-containing compound Ac may be a compound other than ammonium sulfate or urea.

[0032] 1(b), nitrate Nc is added to the solvent Sb in the container C1 in addition to the ammonia nitrogen-containing compound Ac, whereby the nitrate Nc dissolves in the solvent Sb.

[0033] Here too, by dissolving a predetermined amount of ammonia nitrogen-containing compound Ac in a predetermined amount of solvent Sb, a functional component increaser Fi having an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM or more and 1000 mM or less can be prepared.

[0034] By dissolving a predetermined amount of nitrate Nc in a predetermined amount of solvent Sb, the solution has a nitrate nitrogen concentration of 10 mM or more and 50 mM or less.

[0035] Any compound can be used as the nitrate Nc. For example, potassium nitrate can be used as the nitrate Nc. However, the nitrate Nc may be a compound other than potassium nitrate.

[0036] As shown in Figure 1(c), a spreading agent Sc is added to the solvent Sb in the container C1 in addition to the ammonia nitrogen-containing compound Ac and the nitrate Nc. For example, the spreading agent Sc is a solution. The spreading agent Sc is used to bring out the effects of the active ingredient of the ammonia nitrogen-containing compound Ac.

[0037] Here too, by dissolving a predetermined amount of ammonia nitrogen-containing compound Ac in a predetermined amount of solvent Sb, a functional component increaser Fi having an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM or more and 1000 mM or less can be prepared.

[0038] [Grant location] The functional component increaser is applied to agricultural crops. The functional component increaser may be applied to a solution for hydroponic cultivation of agricultural crops. The functional component increaser may also be applied to culture soil for pot cultivation of agricultural crops. Furthermore, the functional component increaser Fi may be applied to soil for outdoor cultivation of agricultural crops.

[0039] For example, the functional ingredient increaser may be applied to the leaf surface of the crop, or may be applied to the base of the crop.

[0040] [Timing of grant] The functional component increaser may be applied to the crop at the seedling stage, or may be applied when the crop is planted.

[0041] The functional component increaser Fi of this embodiment can increase specific functional components in existing crops without the need for genetic modification or crossbreeding. Furthermore, the functional component increaser Fi of this embodiment can be applied during the seedling and / or cultivation period of crops. Furthermore, the functional component increaser Fi of this embodiment can be prepared and / or applied without using special equipment or harmful substances. Furthermore, the functional component increaser Fi of this embodiment can be applied to both soil and hydroponic cultivation.

[0042] Next, a method for applying the functional component increaser Fi of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2. As described above, the functional component increaser Fi is a solution containing a predetermined concentration of ammonia nitrogen component. Fig. 2(a) to Fig. 2(c) are schematic diagrams showing the growth process of agricultural crops.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 2(a), a functional component increaser Fi is added to agricultural crops at the seedling stage as they go through stages of sowing, raising seedlings, transplanting, and harvesting.

[0044] Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 2(b), the functional component increaser Fi is applied to the leaves of the crops at the planting stage, where the crops are in the stages of sowing, raising seedlings, planting, and harvesting.

[0045] Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 2(c), the functional component increaser Fi is applied to the base of the crop at the planting stage of the crop, which is transitioning from sowing, raising seedlings, planting, and harvesting.

[0046] According to this embodiment, the functional component increaser Fi can be applied to the crop under conditions suitable for the crop, and therefore the functional components of the crop can be effectively increased by a predetermined amount of the component. [Example]

[0047] Examples of the present invention will be described below, but the present invention is not limited to the following examples.

[0048] [Example 1] A functional ingredient enhancer was added to Komatsuna, and various amino acid components in the Komatsuna were measured.

[0049] [Raising Komatsuna seedlings] Komatsuna seeds were sown and grown in a vegetable box (manufactured by Sankyo Frontier Co., Ltd.) The komatsuna was given a diluted solution of Hyponex concentrate (manufactured by Hyponex Japan Co., Ltd.) diluted 1000 times.

[0050] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution] Ammonium sulfate solutions were prepared. Ammonium sulfate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare ammonium sulfate solutions as functional ingredient enhancers. In the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentrations of ammonium sulfate were adjusted to 92 mM, 184 mM, 276 mM, and 368 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 184 mM, 368 mM, 552 mM, and 736 mM. In addition, in the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentration of potassium nitrate was adjusted to 20 mM, and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was adjusted to 20 mM.

[0051] [Addition of ammonium sulfate solution] Twenty-eight days after sowing, the roots of the Komatsuna plants were immersed in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonium nitrogen concentrations of 184 mM, 368 mM, 552 mM, and 736 mM for 24 hours. After the immersion period, the roots were immersed in water for 10 minutes twice.

[0052] [Planting Komatsuna] After treatment with the ammonium sulfate solution, the komatsuna plants were planted in a vegetable box (manufactured by Sankyo Frontier Co., Ltd.) Two days after treatment with the ammonium sulfate solution, the komatsuna plants were harvested.

[0053] [Measurement of free amino acids] Free amino acids in the leaves of harvested Komatsuna plants were measured using a high-performance liquid chromatograph UV / VIS detector (HPLC-UV / VIS) (JASCO Corporation). The number of tests and the number of individuals measured were both one, and amino acid measurements were performed on one individual.

[0054] Figure 3 shows the increase rates of the amino acid components Gly, Ala, Val, Cys, Met, Ile, Leu, Tyr, Phe, Orn, Lys, His, and Arg in komatsuna leaves soaked in a functional ingredient increaser for two days. In Figure 3, the vertical axis represents the increase rate. An increase rate of 1.0 was based on the results for komatsuna leaves that were not soaked in an ammonium sulfate solution as a comparative example.

[0055] As shown in Figure 3, immersion in ammonium sulfate solution increased the amino acid content in komatsuna leaves compared to when not immersed in ammonium sulfate solution. In particular, the components of alanine (Ala), valine (Val), methionine (Met), and leucine (Leu) in komatsuna leaves increased with increasing ammonium sulfate concentration.

[0056] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, when the ammonium nitrogen concentration was 552 mM and 736 mM, the components in Komatsuna leaves, including cysteine ​​(Cys), methionine (Met), leucine (Leu), histidine (His), and histidine (His), increased significantly.

[0057] [Example 2] The komatsuna used in Example 1 was replaced with cabbage seedlings, and an ammonium sulfate solution was applied in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0058] [cabbage] The cabbage used was YR Haruzora (manufactured by Takii Seed Co., Ltd.).

[0059] [Cabbage seedling raising] Cabbage seeds were sown in a medium (manufactured by Hananoumi Co., Ltd.) in a seedling pot inside a vegetable box (manufactured by Sankyo Frontier Co., Ltd.) and grown as seedlings.

[0060] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution] Ammonium sulfate solutions were prepared. Ammonium sulfate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare ammonium sulfate solutions as functional ingredient enhancers. In the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentrations of ammonium sulfate were adjusted to 92 mM, 184 mM, 276 mM, and 368 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 184 mM, 368 mM, 552 mM, and 736 mM. In addition, in the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentration of potassium nitrate was adjusted to 20 mM, and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was adjusted to 20 mM.

[0061] [Addition of ammonium sulfate solution] Thirty-four days after sowing the cabbages, the cabbage seedling pots were immersed in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonium nitrogen concentrations of 184 mM, 368 mM, 552 mM, and 736 mM for 24 hours. After the immersion period, the cabbage roots were immersed in water for 10 minutes twice.

[0062] [Cabbage planting] After treatment with the ammonium sulfate solution, the cabbages were planted in a vegetable box (manufactured by Sankyo Frontier Co., Ltd.) and harvested 7 days after treatment with the ammonium sulfate solution.

[0063] [Measurement of free amino acids] Free amino acids in the harvested cabbage leaves were measured using a high-performance liquid chromatograph UV / VIS detector (HPLC-UV / VIS) (JASCO Corporation). The number of experiments and the number of individuals measured were both 1, and amino acid measurements were performed on 1 individual.

[0064] Figure 4A shows the increase rates of the amino acids Asp, Thr, Ser, Ala, Val, Cys, Met, Ile, Leu, Tyr, Phe, Orn, and Lys in cabbage leaves soaked in a functional ingredient increaser. In Figure 4A, the vertical axis represents the increase rate. An increase rate of 1.0 was based on the results for komatsuna leaves that were not soaked in a functional ingredient increaser, as a comparative example.

[0065] Figure 4B shows the increase rate of the amino acid component Glu in cabbage leaves soaked in the functional ingredient increaser. In Figure 4B, the vertical axis represents the increase rate. An increase rate of 1.0 was based on the result of komatsuna leaves that were not soaked in the functional ingredient increaser, as a comparative example.

[0066] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the amino acid components Thr, Ser, Ala, Val, Ile, Leu, Phe, Orn, Lys, and Glu increased in the leaves compared to when they were not soaked in the functional component enhancer.

[0067] [Example 3] The ammonium sulfate solution of Example 2 was applied to cabbage seedlings in the same manner as in Example 2, except that the ammonium sulfate solution was replaced with the urea solution.

[0068] [cabbage] The cabbage used was Chuwase No. 2 (manufactured by Sakata Seed Corporation).

[0069] [Cabbage seedling raising] Cabbage seeds were sown and raised at the Ritto Center of the Shiga Division of Yanmar Symbiosis Co., Ltd. (YSS Ritto Center).

[0070] [Preparation of urea solution] Urea (special grade: manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (special grade: manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare urea solutions as functional ingredient enhancers. The urea molar concentrations in the urea solutions were adjusted to 150 mM, 350 mM, and 500 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 300 mM, 700 mM, and 1000 mM. The urea solutions were also adjusted to a molar concentration of potassium nitrate of 20 mM, and a nitrate nitrogen concentration of 20 mM.

[0071] [Cabbage seedling raising] Cabbage seedlings were grown for 27 days after sowing. After 27 days, the roots were immersed in urea solutions with ammonium nitrogen concentrations of 300 mM, 700 mM, and 1000 mM for 24 hours. After the immersion period, the roots were immersed in water for 10 minutes twice.

[0072] [Cabbage planting and harvesting] After treatment with the urea solution, the cabbages were planted and harvested 140 to 172 days after treatment with the urea solution.

[0073] [Measurement of free amino acids] Free amino acids in the harvested cabbage leaves were measured using a high-performance liquid chromatograph UV / VIS detector (HPLC-UV / VIS) (JASCO Corporation). The number of experiments and the number of individuals measured were both 1, and amino acid measurements were performed on 1 individual.

[0074] Figure 5 shows the percentage increase in the amino acid components Asp, Glu, Asn, Ser, Gln, His, Gly, Thr, Arg, Ala, Tyr, Cys, Val, Met, Trp, Phe, Ile, Leu, Lys, and Pro in cabbage leaves immersed in urea solutions with ammonium nitrogen concentrations of 300 mM, 700 mM, 800 mM, and 1000 mM. In Figure 5, the vertical axis represents the percentage increase. An increase of 1.0 was determined based on the results of a comparative example in which no urea solution was applied to the cabbage.

[0075] As shown in Figure 5, the amino acid components of tyrosine (Tyr), methionine (Met), and leucine (Leu) in leaves increased depending on the ammonium nitrogen concentration of the urea solution. Additionally, the amino acid components of arginine (Arg) and phenylalanine (Phe) in leaves increased depending on the ammonium nitrogen concentration of the urea solution when the ammonium nitrogen concentration of the urea solution was relatively low.

[0076] [Example 4] The ammonium sulfate solution and urea solution were applied to cabbages in the same manner as in Examples 2 and 3, except that the ammonium sulfate solution and urea solution were applied not only to the cabbage seedlings before planting, but also to the leaf surfaces of cabbages after planting but before harvesting.

[0077] [cabbage] The cabbage used was Chuwase No. 2 (manufactured by Sakata Seed Corporation).

[0078] [Cabbage seedling raising] Cabbage seeds were sown and raised at the Ritto Center of the Shiga Division of Yanmar Symbiosis Co., Ltd. (YSS Ritto Center).

[0079] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution] Ammonium sulfate solutions were prepared. Ammonium sulfate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare ammonium sulfate solutions as functional component enhancers. In the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentrations of ammonium sulfate were adjusted to 150 mM, 350 mM, 400 mM, and 500 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 300 mM, 700 mM, 800 mM, and 1000 mM. In addition, in the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentration of potassium nitrate was adjusted to 20 mM, and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was adjusted to 20 mM.

[0080] [Addition of ammonium sulfate solution] 27 days after sowing, the cabbage roots were soaked in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonium nitrogen concentrations of 300 mM, 700 mM, 800 mM, and 1000 mM for 24 hours. After the soaking period, the cabbage roots were soaked in water for 10 minutes twice.

[0081] [Cabbage planting] After treatment with ammonium sulfate solution, the cabbages were planted.

[0082] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution for foliar spray] An ammonium sulfate solution was prepared as a functional ingredient enhancer for foliar spray. A spreading agent was added to the ammonium sulfate solution. Squash (Maruwa Biochemical Co., Ltd.) was used as the spreading agent, and the spreading agent concentration was 0.1%.

[0083] [Foliar spray on cabbage] Cabbages were harvested 104 to 136 days after planting. One to six weeks before harvest, ammonium sulfate solution for foliar spray was applied to the cabbage leaves. 250 ml of ammonium sulfate solution for foliar spray was applied per cabbage plant using a chemical sprayer.

[0084] [Measurement of free amino acids] Free amino acids in the harvested cabbage leaves were measured using a high-performance liquid chromatograph UV / VIS detector (HPLC-UV / VIS) (JASCO Corporation). The number of experiments and the number of individuals measured were both 1, and amino acid measurements were performed on 1 individual.

[0085] [Addition of urea solution] Similar to the application of the ammonium sulfate solution described above, the urea solution was applied to the cabbages before planting and before harvesting.

[0086] [Preparation of urea solution] Urea (special grade: manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (special grade: manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare urea solutions as functional ingredient enhancers. The urea molar concentrations in the urea solutions were adjusted to 150 mM, 350 mM, 400 mM, and 500 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 300 mM, 700 mM, 800 mM, and 1000 mM. The urea solutions were also adjusted to a molar concentration of potassium nitrate of 20 mM and a nitrate nitrogen concentration of 20 mM.

[0087] [Preparation of urea solution for foliar spray] A urea solution for foliar spray was prepared. A spreading agent was added to the urea solution. Squash (Maruwa Biochemical Co., Ltd.) was used as the spreading agent, and the spreading agent concentration was 0.1%.

[0088] Figure 6(a) shows the increase rates of the amino acid components Asp, Gln, Arg, Leu, and Lys in cabbage leaves that were applied with ammonium sulfate solutions containing 300 mM, 700 mM, 800 mM, and 1000 mM ammonium nitrogen for 24 hours before planting and then with ammonium sulfate solution before harvest. In Figure 6(a), the vertical axis represents the increase rate. An increase rate of 1.0 was determined based on the results of a comparative example in which ammonium sulfate solution was not applied to the cabbage.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 6(a), the addition of ammonium sulfate solution increased Asp, Gln, and Arg by more than two times.

[0090] Figure 6(b) shows the increase rates of the amino acid components Asp, Gln, Arg, Leu, and Lys in cabbage leaves after application of urea solutions with ammonium nitrogen concentrations of 300 mM, 700 mM, 800 mM, and 1000 mM before planting and before harvesting. In Figure 6(b), the vertical axis also shows the increase rate. An increase rate of 1.0 was determined based on the results of the comparative example in which no urea solution was applied to the cabbage.

[0091] As shown in Figure 6(b), the addition of urea solution increased Gln, Arg, Leu, and Lys. In particular, Gln and Arg increased by more than two-fold.

[0092] [Example 5] Immediately before harvesting the cabbages, the ammonium sulfate solution and urea solution were applied to the cabbages in the same manner as in Example 4, except that the ammonium sulfate solution and urea solution were irrigated at the base of the cabbage plants instead of the cabbage leaves.

[0093] [cabbage] The cabbage used was Chuwase No. 2 (manufactured by Sakata Seed Corporation).

[0094] [Cabbage seedling raising] Cabbage seeds were sown and raised at the Ritto Center of Yanmar Symbiosis Co., Ltd. Shiga Business Division (YSS Ritto Center).

[0095] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution] Ammonium sulfate solutions were prepared. Ammonium sulfate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare ammonium sulfate solutions as functional component enhancers. In the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentrations of ammonium sulfate were adjusted to 150 mM, 350 mM, 400 mM, and 500 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 300 mM, 700 mM, 800 mM, and 1000 mM. In addition, in the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentration of potassium nitrate was adjusted to 20 mM, and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was adjusted to 20 mM.

[0096] 27 days after sowing, the cabbage roots were immersed in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonium nitrogen concentrations of 300 mM, 700 mM, and 1000 mM for 24 hours. After the immersion period, the cabbage roots were immersed in water for 10 minutes twice.

[0097] [Cabbage planting] After treatment with the ammonium sulfate solution, the cabbages were planted and harvested 140 to 172 days after treatment with the ammonium sulfate solution.

[0098] [Irrigation of cabbage plants] Cabbages were harvested 104 to 136 days after planting. One to six weeks before the cabbage harvest date, an ammonium sulfate solution was applied to the base of the cabbage plants.

[0099] [Measurement of free amino acids] Free amino acids in the harvested cabbage leaves were measured using a high-performance liquid chromatograph UV / VIS detector (HPLC-UV / VIS) (JASCO Corporation). The number of experiments and the number of individuals measured were both 1, and amino acid measurements were performed on 1 individual.

[0100] [Addition of urea solution] Similar to the application of the ammonium sulfate solution described above, the urea solution was applied to the cabbages before planting and before harvesting.

[0101] [Preparation of urea solution] Urea (special grade: manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (special grade: manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare urea solutions as functional ingredient enhancers. The urea molar concentrations in the urea solutions were adjusted to 150 mM, 350 mM, 400 mM, and 500 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 300 mM, 700 mM, 800 mM, and 1000 mM. The urea solutions were also adjusted to a molar concentration of potassium nitrate of 20 mM and a nitrate nitrogen concentration of 20 mM.

[0102] Figure 7(a) shows the percentage increase in the amino acid components Asp, Glu, Asn, Ser, Gln, His, Gly, Thr, Arg, Ala, Tau, Tyr, Cys, Val, Met, Trp, Phe, Ile, Leu, Lys, and Pro in cabbage leaves treated with ammonium sulfate solutions at ammonium nitrogen concentrations of 300 mM, 700 mM, 800 mM, and 1000 mM before planting and before harvesting. In Figure 7(a), the vertical axis represents the percentage increase. A percentage increase of 1.0 was determined based on the results of a comparative example in which ammonium sulfate solution was not applied to the cabbage.

[0103] As shown in Figure 7(a), the addition of ammonium sulfate solution increased the amino acid content under both conditions. In particular, Asp, Gln, Arg, and Cys increased by more than two-fold.

[0104] Figure 7(b) shows the percentage increase in the amino acid components Asp, Glu, Asn, Ser, Gln, His, Gly, Thr, Arg, Ala, Tau, Tyr, Cys, Val, Met, Trp, Phe, Ile, Leu, Lys, and Pro in cabbage leaves after application of urea solutions with ammonium nitrogen concentrations of 300 mM, 700 mM, 800 mM, and 1000 mM before planting and before harvest. In Figure 7(b), the vertical axis also shows the percentage increase. A percentage increase of 1.0 was determined based on the results of a comparative example in which no urea solution was applied to the cabbage.

[0105] As shown in Figure 7(b), the addition of urea solution increased the abundance of many amino acids under both conditions. In particular, Asp, Ser, Gly, Arg, Tyr, Met, Phe, Leu, and Lys increased by more than two-fold.

[0106] [Example 6] The ammonium sulfate solution was applied in the same manner as in Example 4, except that the target to which the ammonium sulfate solution was applied was changed from cabbage to broccoli seedlings.

[0107] [broccoli] Broccoli varieties Pixel (Sakata Seed Corporation) and Grand Dome (Sakata Seed Corporation) were used.

[0108] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution] An ammonium sulfate solution was prepared. Ammonium sulfate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare an ammonium sulfate solution as a functional component enhancer. In the ammonium sulfate solution, the molar concentrations of ammonium sulfate were adjusted to 50 mM and 200 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 100 mM and 400 mM. In addition, in the ammonium sulfate solution, the molar concentration of potassium nitrate was adjusted to 20 mM, and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was adjusted to 20 mM.

[0109] [Broccoli seedling treatment] Broccoli seedling pots were immersed in an ammonium sulfate solution for 3 and 24 hours. After the immersion time, the broccoli seedling pots were immersed in water for 10 minutes twice.

[0110] [Broccoli planting] The broccoli was then planted outdoors at the Yanmar Bio Innovation Center Kurashiki Laboratory. Broccoli florets were harvested 66 to 181 days after planting.

[0111] [Measurement of free amino acids] Free amino acids in the leaves of harvested broccoli were measured using a high-performance liquid chromatograph UV / VIS detector (HPLC-UV / VIS) (JASCO Corporation). The number of experiments and the number of individuals measured were both one, and amino acid measurements were performed on one individual.

[0112] Figure 8A shows the percentage increase in the amino acid components Ala, Val, Leu, Ile, Pro, Gly, Ser, Thr, Asp, Met, Phe, Trp, Glu, and Gln in broccoli plants immersed in ammonium sulfate solution at an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM for 24 hours, 400 mM for 24 hours, and 400 mM for 3 hours during cultivation. In Figure 8A, the vertical axis represents the percentage increase. A percentage increase of 1.0 is based on the percentage increase in broccoli plants not treated with ammonium sulfate solution, which serves as a comparative example.

[0113] As shown in Figure 8A, the addition of ammonium sulfate solution increased the concentrations of all amino acids except Glu. In particular, the concentrations of Leu, Ile, Gly, Asp, Met, Phe, and Trp increased by more than two-fold.

[0114] [Foliar spray] For some broccoli plants, an ammonium sulfate solution was applied to the foliage of the broccoli plants before harvest.

[0115] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution for foliar spray] An ammonium sulfate solution was prepared as a functional ingredient enhancer for foliar spray. A spreading agent was added to the ammonium sulfate solution with an ammonium nitrogen concentration of 100 mM and a nitrate nitrogen concentration of 20 mM. Squash (Maruwa Biochemical Co., Ltd.) was used as the spreading agent, and the spreading agent concentration was 0.1%.

[0116] [Foliar spray on broccoli] Broccoli was harvested 66 to 181 days after planting. Broccoli leaves were sprayed with ammonium sulfate foliar spray 3 days to 16 weeks before harvest.

[0117] Figure 8B shows the percentage increase in the amino acid components Ala, Val, Leu, Ile, Pro, Gly, Ser, Thr, Asp, Met, Phe, Trp, Glu, and Gln in broccoli plants that were immersed in an ammonium sulfate solution with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM during cultivation, with and without foliar spray. In Figure 8B, the vertical axis also indicates the percentage increase. A percentage increase of 1.0 is based on the broccoli plants that were not treated with ammonium sulfate solution, which served as a comparative example.

[0118] As shown in Figure 8B, additional foliar spray application of ammonium sulfate solution increased Leu, Ile, Thr, Asp, Phe, Glu, and Gln.

[0119] Figure 8C shows the percentage increase in the amino acid components Ala, Val, Leu, Ile, Pro, Gly, Ser, Thr, Asp, Met, Phe, Trp, Glu, and Gln in broccoli plants immersed in ammonium sulfate solution with a 400 mM ammonia nitrogen concentration for 3 and 24 hours during cultivation. The vertical axis also shows the percentage increase. A percentage increase of 1.0 is based on the percentage increase in broccoli plants not treated with ammonium sulfate solution, which serves as a comparative example.

[0120] As shown in Figure 8C, Ala, Val, Leu, Ile, Gly, Ser, Thr, Met, Phe, and Trp increased with increasing immersion time in the ammonium sulfate solution.

[0121] [Example 7] The ammonium sulfate solution was applied to broccoli under conditions different from those in Example 6.

[0122] [broccoli] Broccoli of the variety Pixel was used.

[0123] [Broccoli seedling raising] Broccoli was sown in cell trays.

[0124] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution] Ammonium sulfate solutions were prepared. Ammonium sulfate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare ammonium sulfate solutions as functional ingredient enhancers. In the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentrations of ammonium sulfate were adjusted to 25 mM, 37.5 mM, 50 mM, 100 mM, 150 mM, 200 mM, 250 mM, and 300 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 50 mM, 75 mM, 100 mM, 200 mM, 300 mM, 400 mM, 500 mM, and 600 mM. In addition, in the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentration of potassium nitrate was adjusted to 20 mM, and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was adjusted to 20 mM.

[0125] [Addition of ammonium sulfate solution] Broccoli seedlings were sown in cell trays and grown for 38 days. Thirty-six days after sowing, the cell trays were immersed in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonium nitrogen concentrations of 0 mM, 50 mM, 75 mM, 100 mM, 200 mM, 300 mM, 400 mM, 500 mM, and 600 mM. The immersion times were set to 3 hours and 24 hours. After the immersion times had elapsed, the broccoli seedling pots were immersed in water for 10 minutes twice and then returned to their original conditions.

[0126] [Broccoli planting] After raising the seedlings for 38 days, the broccoli cell trays were placed on Naeterrace (registered trademark) manufactured by MKV Advance Co., Ltd., and the broccoli was planted.

[0127] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution for foliar spray] An ammonium sulfate solution was prepared as a functional ingredient enhancer for foliar spray. A spreading agent was added to the ammonium sulfate solution. Squash (Maruwa Biochemical Co., Ltd.) was used as the spreading agent, and the spreading agent concentration was 0.1%.

[0128] [Foliar spray on broccoli] Broccoli was cultivated for 76 days after planting. Eight to nine weeks after planting, ammonium sulfate solution for foliar spraying was applied to the broccoli leaves using a chemical sprayer.

[0129] [Measurement of the length (elongation) of broccoli from the ground to the shoot tip] The length (elongation amount) of the harvested broccoli from the ground to the shoot tip was measured.

[0130] Figure 9A shows the length (elongation) from the root to the shoot tip of broccoli plants that were immersed in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations ranging from 0 mM to 600 mM for 24 hours during cultivation and then cultivated for 46 days. As a comparative example, Figure 9A also shows the length (elongation) from the root to the shoot tip of broccoli plants that were not immersed in ammonium sulfate solutions.

[0131] As shown in FIG. 9A, when the ammonia nitrogen concentration of the ammonium sulfate solution was 200 mM or higher, the growth of broccoli seedlings was promoted.

[0132] [Measurement of free amino acids] The free amino acids in the harvested broccoli leaves were measured using a gas chromatograph mass spectrometer (Shimadzu Corporation).

[0133] Figure 9B shows the increase in the concentrations of Ile, Val, Leu, Thr, Met, and Phe when broccoli was soaked in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 0, 50 mM, 400 mM, and 600 mM for 3 and 24 hours. In Figure 9B, the vertical axis represents the increase. An increase of 1.0 was determined based on the results for broccoli not soaked in ammonium sulfate solution, which served as a comparative example.

[0134] As shown in Figure 9B, when the ammonia nitrogen concentration was 400 mM or higher, the amino acid components increased significantly. In particular, Met increased significantly. Furthermore, the increase rates of Ile, Val, Leu, and Thr after 3 hours of soaking were greater than after 24 hours.

[0135] Figure 9C shows the percentage increase in the components Ala, Pro, Gly, Ser, Asp, Glu, and Gln when broccoli was soaked in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 0, 50 mM, 400 mM, and 600 mM for 3 and 24 hours. The vertical axis also shows the percentage increase. A percentage increase of 1.0 was calculated based on the results for broccoli not soaked in ammonium sulfate solution, which served as a comparative example.

[0136] As shown in Figure 9C, when the ammonia nitrogen concentration was 400 mM or higher, the amino acid content increased significantly, especially Gln.

[0137] [Example 8] As in Example 6, an ammonium sulfate solution and a urea solution were applied to broccoli as functional ingredient enhancers.

[0138] [broccoli] Broccoli of the variety Sorin (TSX-026) (manufactured by Tokita Seed Co., Ltd.) was used.

[0139] [Broccoli seedling raising] Broccoli seedlings were grown at the Yanmar Bio Innovation Center Kurashiki Laboratory.

[0140] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution] Ammonium sulfate solutions were prepared. Ammonium sulfate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare ammonium sulfate solutions as functional component enhancers. In the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentrations of ammonium sulfate were adjusted to 50 mM, 200 mM, and 300 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 100 mM, 400 mM, and 600 mM. In addition, in the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentration of potassium nitrate was adjusted to 20 mM, and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was adjusted to 20 mM.

[0141] [Addition of ammonium sulfate solution] Broccoli seedlings were grown for 26 days after sowing. After 26 days, the broccoli plants were immersed in ammonium sulfate and urea solutions, respectively. The immersion time was set to 24 hours. After the immersion time had elapsed, the broccoli seedling pots were immersed in water for 10 minutes twice.

[0142] [Broccoli planting] Broccoli was then planted and cultivated for 82 to 118 days before being harvested.

[0143] [Measurement of free amino acids] Free amino acids in the harvested broccoli were measured using a high performance liquid chromatograph UV / VIS detector (HPLC-UV / VIS) (manufactured by JASCO Corporation).

[0144] Figure 10(a) shows the percentage increase in the amino acid components Asp, Glu, Asn, Ser, Gln, His, Gly, Thr, Arg, Ala, Tau, Tyr, Cys, Val, Met, Trp, Phe, Ile, Orn, Leu, Lys, and Pro when broccoli was soaked in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 100 mM, 400 mM, and 600 mM for 3 and 24 hours. In Figure 10(a), the vertical axis also shows the percentage increase. A percentage increase of 1.0 was determined based on the results for broccoli not soaked in ammonium sulfate solution, which served as a comparative example.

[0145] As shown in FIG. 10(a), the addition of ammonium sulfate solution increased Glu, Gly, Tyr, Met, Trp, Phe, Orn, Leu, and Lys.

[0146] [Addition of urea solution] Similar to the application of the ammonium sulfate solution described above, the urea solution was applied to the cabbages before planting.

[0147] [Preparation of urea solution] Urea solutions were prepared. Urea (special grade: manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (special grade: manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare urea solutions as functional ingredient enhancers. In the urea solutions, the molar concentrations of urea were adjusted to 50 mM, 200 mM, and 300 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 100 mM, 400 mM, and 600 mM. In addition, the molar concentration of potassium nitrate in the urea solutions was adjusted to 20 mM, and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was adjusted to 20 mM.

[0148] Figure 10(b) shows the percentage increase in the amino acid components Asp, Glu, Asn, Ser, Gln, His, Gly, Thr, Arg, Ala, Tau, Tyr, Cys, Val, Met, Trp, Phe, Ile, Leu, Lys, and Pro when broccoli was soaked in urea solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 100 mM, 400 mM, and 600 mM for 3 and 24 hours. In Figure 10(b), the vertical axis also shows the percentage increase. A percentage increase of 1.0 was determined based on the results for broccoli not soaked in urea solution, which served as a comparative example.

[0149] As shown in Figure 10(b), the increase rates of Asp, Glu, Asn, Ser, Gln, His, Thr, Arg, Ala, Cys, Val, Trp, Phe, Ile, and Pro were more than two-fold.

[0150] [Example 9] The target crop was changed to sunny lettuce, and an ammonium sulfate solution was applied in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0151] [Cultivation of sunny lettuce] Sunny lettuce was seeded on a medium containing a diluted solution of Hyponex stock solution (manufactured by Hyponex Japan Co., Ltd.) diluted 1000 times, and the sunny lettuce was cultured.

[0152] [Raising sunny lettuce seedlings] After that, sunny lettuce was grown in a sponge.

[0153] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution] Ammonium sulfate solutions were prepared. Ammonium sulfate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare ammonium sulfate solutions as functional ingredient enhancers. In the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentrations of ammonium sulfate were adjusted to 92 mM, 184 mM, 276 mM, and 368 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 184 mM, 368 mM, 552 mM, and 736 mM. In addition, in the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentration of potassium nitrate was adjusted to 20 mM, and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was adjusted to 20 mM.

[0154] Lettuce plants 26 days after sowing were immersed in an ammonium sulfate solution for 48 hours. After the immersion time had elapsed, the lettuce seedling pots were immersed in water for 10 minutes twice.

[0155] [Cultivation of sunny lettuce] Thereafter, the sunny lettuce was cultivated in a vegetable box manufactured by Sankyo Frontier Co., Ltd. for 26 days.

[0156] [Measurement of free amino acids] Free amino acids in sunny lettuce were measured using a high performance liquid chromatograph UV / VIS detector (HPLC-UV / VIS) (manufactured by JASCO Corporation).

[0157] Figure 11A shows the amounts (mg) of the amino acid components Gly, Cys, Ile, Val, Met, and Leu in 100 g of sunny lettuce soaked in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 184 mM, 368 mM, 552 mM, and 736 mM. Figure 11B shows the amounts (mg) of the amino acid components Phe, Lys, Arg, Orn, and His in 100 g of sunny lettuce soaked in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 184 mM, 368 mM, 552 mM, and 736 mM.

[0158] 11A and 11B, the amino acid content increased with the application of ammonium sulfate solution. In particular, the amino acid content increased significantly when the wood was immersed in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 552 mM and 736 mM for 48 hours.

[0159] [Example 10] The ammonium sulfate solution was applied to the cabbage under conditions different from those in Example 4.

[0160] [cabbage] The cabbage variety used was Okina SP (manufactured by Takii Seed Co., Ltd.).

[0161] [Cabbage seedling raising] Cabbage seeds were sown on a medium consisting of Vegetable Soil H-150 (manufactured by Yanmar Agri Co., Ltd.) and vermiculite. Seedlings were grown at 20°C under a repeated light-dark cycle of 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness.

[0162] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution] An ammonium sulfate solution was prepared. Ammonium sulfate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare an ammonium sulfate solution as a functional component enhancer. In the ammonium sulfate solution, the molar concentrations of ammonium sulfate were adjusted to 250 mM and 350 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 500 mM and 700 mM. In addition, in the ammonium sulfate solution, the molar concentration of potassium nitrate was adjusted to 20 mM, and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was adjusted to 20 mM.

[0163] [Addition of ammonium sulfate solution] Cabbage seedlings were grown for 27 days after sowing. After 27 days, the cabbages were immersed in an ammonium sulfate solution. The immersion time was set to 24 hours. After the immersion time had elapsed, the cabbage seedling pots were immersed in water for 10 minutes twice.

[0164] [Cabbage planting] The cabbages were then harvested 87 to 88 days after planting. As with the seedlings, the cultivation was carried out at a temperature of 20°C under a repeated light-dark cycle of 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness.

[0165] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution for foliar spray] An ammonium sulfate solution for foliar spray was prepared. Ammonium sulfate (Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare an ammonium sulfate solution as a functional ingredient enhancer. The ammonium sulfate solution was adjusted to a molar concentration of 250 mM and 350 mM, respectively, and an ammonium nitrogen concentration of 500 mM and 700 mM. The ammonium sulfate solution was also adjusted to a molar concentration of 20 mM potassium nitrate, and an nitrate nitrogen concentration of 20 mM.

[0166] A spreading agent was added to the ammonium sulfate solution for foliar spray. Squash (Maruwa Biochemical Co., Ltd.) was used as the spreading agent, and the spreading agent concentration was 0.1%.

[0167] After application of the ammonium sulfate solution for foliar spray, the cabbages were harvested one week and four weeks later.

[0168] Figure 12A shows the increase in vitamin U, a component of amino acids, when cabbage was immersed in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 500 mM and 700 mM and then sprayed on the leaves one week and four weeks before harvest. In Figure 12A, the vertical axis represents the increase. An increase of 1.0 was based on the results of a comparative example in which no ammonium sulfate solution was applied to the cabbage.

[0169] As shown in Figure 12A, vitamin U increased 4.4-fold when the plants were immersed in an ammonium sulfate solution with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 700 mM and then sprayed on the leaves one week before harvest.

[0170] Figure 12B shows the increase in glucose / fructose and sucrose concentrations when cabbage was immersed in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 500 mM and 700 mM and then sprayed on the leaves one week and four weeks before harvest. In Figure 12B, the vertical axis represents the increase. An increase of 1.0 was based on the results of the comparative example in which no ammonium sulfate solution was applied to the cabbage.

[0171] As shown in Figure 12B, immersion in an ammonium sulfate solution with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 700 mM slightly increased sucrose, and foliar spraying also slightly increased sucrose.

[0172] Figure 12C shows the increase rates of the amino acid components Arg, Ala, Glu, Pro, Asp, His, Leu / Ile, Lys, Met, Phe, Ser, Thr, Tyr, and Val when cabbage was immersed in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 500 mM and 700 mM and then sprayed on the leaves 1 week and 4 weeks before harvest. In Figure 12C, the vertical axis represents the increase rate. An increase rate of 1.0 was determined based on the results of a comparative example in which the cabbage was not treated with ammonium sulfate solution.

[0173] As shown in Figure 12C, immersion in an ammonium sulfate solution with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 700 mM followed by foliar spraying within one week of harvest increased the amino acid content.

[0174] Figure 12D shows the increase in tartaric acid and citric acid levels after immersion in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 500 mM and 700 mM and subsequent foliar application one week and four weeks before harvest. In Figure 12D, the vertical axis represents the increase. An increase rate of 1.0 was determined based on the results of the comparative example in which no ammonium sulfate solution was applied to the cabbage.

[0175] As shown in Figure 12D, dipping in an ammonium sulfate solution with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 700 mM followed by foliar spraying one week before harvest increased tartaric acid and citric acid.

[0176] Figure 12E shows the increase in glucoraphanin and glucoiberin levels when cabbage was immersed in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 500 mM and 700 mM. In Figure 12E, the vertical axis represents the increase. An increase rate of 1.0 was determined based on the results of the comparative example in which the cabbage was not exposed to ammonium sulfate solution.

[0177] As shown in Figure 12E, immersion in ammonium sulfate solutions with ammonia nitrogen concentrations of 500 mM and 700 mM followed by foliar spraying within one week of harvest increased glucoraphanin and glucoiberin.

[0178] In this way, it was found that it is possible to increase specific amino acid components in multiple types of crops.

[0179] Next, the increase rate of amino acids when the functional component increaser of this example is applied will be described with reference to Figures 13 and 14. Figure 13 is a table showing the amount of amino acids per 100g of agricultural products when the functional component increaser of this example is applied. Figure 14 is a table showing the increase rate of amino acids when the functional component increaser of this example is applied. Here, the maximum value of the results is extracted and shown.

[0180] As shown in Figure 14, Ala and Gly were increased in komatsuna compared to other crops. Val, Phe, Met, and Arg were increased in lettuce compared to other crops. Ile, Thr, His, Phe, Lys, Leu, Asp, Gln, Glu, Ser, Tyr, and Orn were increased in cabbage compared to other crops. Trp, Asn, Cys, and Pro were increased in broccoli compared to other crops.

[0181] [Example 11] The target crop was changed to tomatoes, and an ammonium sulfate solution was applied in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0182] [Preparation of ammonium sulfate solution] Ammonium sulfate solutions were prepared. Ammonium sulfate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) and potassium nitrate (manufactured by Fujifilm Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) were added to water to prepare ammonium sulfate solutions as functional ingredient enhancers. In the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentrations of ammonium sulfate were adjusted to 92 mM, 184 mM, 276 mM, and 368 mM, respectively, and the ammonium nitrogen concentrations were adjusted to 184 mM, 368 mM, 552 mM, and 736 mM. In addition, in the ammonium sulfate solutions, the molar concentration of potassium nitrate was adjusted to 20 mM, and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was adjusted to 20 mM.

[0183] [Addition of functional ingredient enhancers] Tomatoes were treated with ammonium sulfate solution as a functional component enhancer. The ammonium sulfate solution was applied at the seedling stage and / or planting stage of the tomato growth process. The application of the functional component enhancer (ammonium sulfate solution) at the seedling stage was referred to as "seedling treatment," and the application of the functional component enhancer (ammonium sulfate solution) at the planting stage was referred to as "adult treatment." In adult treatment, the functional component enhancer (ammonium sulfate solution) was applied to the tomato leaves (foliar spray).

[0184] [Measurement of functional ingredients] The functional components of tomatoes that had been treated with a functional component enhancer (ammonium sulfate solution) during the growing process were measured.

[0185] Figure 15A shows the percentage increase in the amino acid components of tomatoes, including aspartic acid (Asp), histidine (His), lysine (Lys), and serine (Ser), when seedlings were treated with an ammonium sulfate solution containing 200 mM ammonia nitrogen for 3, 6, and 24 hours and when adult plants were treated with an ammonium sulfate solution containing 300 mM ammonia nitrogen for 24 hours and when adult plants were treated with an ammonium sulfate solution containing 300 mM ammonia nitrogen. In Figure 15A, the vertical axis represents the percentage increase. The percentage increase is based on 1.0, which is the percentage increase for untreated tomatoes (labeled "control") that were not treated with ammonium sulfate.

[0186] Figure 15B shows the rate of increase in ornithine (Orn) in tomatoes grown under the same conditions as Figure 15A, during cultivation. Figure 15C shows the rate of increase in vitamin U in tomatoes grown under the same conditions as Figure 15A, during cultivation. Figure 15D shows the rate of increase in GABA in tomatoes grown under the same conditions as Figure 15A, during cultivation. Figure 15E shows the rate of increase in sucrose in tomatoes grown under the same conditions as Figure 15A, during cultivation. In all Figures 15B to 15E, the vertical axis shows the rate of increase, and the rate of increase is set to 1.0 based on that of untreated tomatoes (labeled "control") that were not given ammonium sulfate solution as a comparative example.

[0187] As shown in Figures 15A to 15E, the application of ammonium sulfate solution increased functional components in tomatoes. In particular, when seedlings were immersed in an ammonium sulfate solution with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 200 mM for 24 hours, the amino acid content increased significantly.

[0188] 16 is a table showing the increase rate of functional components in tomatoes when the functional component increaser of this example was added. Here, the maximum values ​​(maximum increase rates) of the results are extracted and shown.

[0189] [Example 12] A functional component increaser in which the nitrate nitrogen concentration was changed from the ammonium sulfate solution of Example 2 was applied to cabbage seedlings in the same manner as in Example 2.

[0190] When a functional component increaser (ammonium sulfate solution) with a relatively high ammonia nitrogen concentration (e.g., 500 mM) was applied to seedling stage crops (cabbage) (seedling treatment), physiological disorders of the crops (e.g., leaf wilting or death) sometimes occurred. On the other hand, it was found that by appropriately adjusting the ratio of nitrate nitrogen concentration to ammonia nitrogen concentration in the functional component increaser used in seedling treatment, physiological disorders of the crops could be reduced, as shown in Figures 17 and 18.

[0191] Figure 17 shows the leaf expansion speed of a crop (cabbage) 42 days after planting when a functional component increaser with a different ratio of nitrate nitrogen concentration to ammonia nitrogen concentration was used in seedling treatment. In Figure 17, the vertical axis represents the leaf expansion speed (leaves / day). Figure 17 shows an untreated case in which no ammonium sulfate solution was applied, a case in which a functional component increaser with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 500 mM and a nitrate nitrogen concentration of 20 mM was applied, and a case in which a functional component increaser with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 500 mM and a nitrate nitrogen concentration of 133 mM was applied.

[0192] Figure 18 shows the plant height growth of a crop (cabbage) 42 days after planting when functional ingredient increasers with different ratios of nitrate nitrogen concentration to ammonia nitrogen concentration were used in seedling treatment. In Figure 18, the vertical axis represents plant height growth (cm). Figure 18 shows an untreated case where no ammonium sulfate solution was applied, a case where a functional ingredient increaser with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 500 mM and a nitrate nitrogen concentration of 20 mM was applied, and a case where a functional ingredient increaser with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 500 mM and a nitrate nitrogen concentration of 133 mM was applied.

[0193] 17 and 18, even if the ammonia nitrogen concentration is the same at 500 mM, if the nitrate nitrogen concentration is 133 mM, the leaf expansion speed and plant height elongation of the crop (cabbage) are improved compared to when the nitrate nitrogen concentration is 20 mM. Thus, by appropriately adjusting the ratio of nitrate nitrogen concentration to ammonia nitrogen concentration, physiological disorders of crops can be reduced and crop growth can be promoted.

[0194] Figure 19 shows the accumulation rate of glucosinolates (GSLs) in the edible part of a crop (cabbage) under various conditions of application of functional ingredient enhancers. In Figure 19, the vertical axis shows the accumulation rate of glucosinolates (glucoiberin and glucoraphanin), and the accumulation rate is based on the standard (1.0) of untreated cabbage (labeled "control") that was not treated with a functional ingredient enhancer.

[0195] In FIG. 19, the first from the left shows data for the control group (untreated), and the sixth from the left shows data for the case where no seedling treatment was performed and only adult treatment (foliar application) was performed.

[0196] Also, in Figure 19, for "seedling treatment only," from left to right, the cases are shown where the ammonia nitrogen concentration is 300 mM and the nitrate nitrogen concentration is 20 mM, where the ammonia nitrogen concentration is 500 mM and the nitrate nitrogen concentration is 20 mM, where the ammonia nitrogen concentration is 300 mM and the nitrate nitrogen concentration is 80 mM, and where the ammonia nitrogen concentration is 500 mM and the nitrate nitrogen concentration is 133 mM.

[0197] Furthermore, Figure 19 shows, from left to right, the cases for "seedling treatment + adult treatment" where the ammonia nitrogen concentration is 300 mM and the nitrate nitrogen concentration is 20 mM, the ammonia nitrogen concentration is 500 mM and the nitrate nitrogen concentration is 20 mM, the ammonia nitrogen concentration is 300 mM and the nitrate nitrogen concentration is 80 mM, and the ammonia nitrogen concentration is 500 mM and the nitrate nitrogen concentration is 133 mM.

[0198] As shown in Figure 19, even when the ammonia nitrogen concentration was the same, the effect of significantly increasing the glucosinolate accumulation rate depending on the nitrate nitrogen concentration was confirmed. In particular, in the case of "seedling treatment only" where the ammonia nitrogen concentration was 300 mM and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was 80 mM, the glucosinolate accumulation rate was up to 8.2 times higher than in the untreated (control) area. Furthermore, in the case of "seedling treatment + adult treatment" where the ammonia nitrogen concentration was 300 mM and the nitrate nitrogen concentration was 80 mM, the glucosinolate accumulation rate was up to 6.4 times higher than in the case of adult treatment only (up to 2.6 times higher than in the untreated area).

[0199] As explained above, by appropriately adjusting the ratio of nitrate nitrogen concentration to ammonia nitrogen concentration, it is possible to increase the functional components of agricultural crops while reducing physiological disorders of agricultural crops. Basically, physiological disorders can be reduced by increasing the blending rate of nitrate nitrogen in the functional component increaser used in seedling treatment. However, if the ratio of nitrate nitrogen concentration to ammonia nitrogen concentration is too high, the effect of increasing the functional components of agricultural crops will be reduced.

[0200] Therefore, the nitrate nitrogen concentration in the solution is preferably equal to or less than the ammonia nitrogen concentration. In other words, the ammonia nitrogen concentration is preferably equal to or greater than 1 times the nitrate nitrogen concentration. For example, the ammonia nitrogen concentration is preferably set within a range of 2 times to 50 times the nitrate nitrogen concentration. The lower limit of the ammonia nitrogen concentration relative to the nitrate nitrogen concentration is more preferably 2.1 times, 2.2 times, 2.3 times, 2.4 times, 2.5 times, 3 times, 3.5 times, 4 times, 4.5 times, or 5 times. The upper limit of the ammonia nitrogen concentration relative to the nitrate nitrogen concentration is more preferably 45 times, 40 times, 35 times, 30 times, 25 times, 20 times, 15 times, or 10 times. Furthermore, the ammonia nitrogen concentration is more preferably 3.76 times the nitrate nitrogen concentration (i.e., if the ammonia nitrogen concentration is 500 mM, the nitrate nitrogen concentration is 133 mM).

[0201] <Additional Notes> The matters explained in the embodiments and examples are additionally noted below.

[0202] (Appendix 1) A functional ingredient increaser having a solution with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM or more and 1000 mM or less. (Appendix 2) The functional ingredient increaser described in Appendix 1, which increases amino acids in agricultural crops. (Appendix 3) The functional ingredient increaser according to Appendix 2, wherein the agricultural crop belongs to at least one of the Brassicaceae, Asteraceae, and Solanaceae families. (Appendix 4) The functional ingredient increaser according to Appendix 2 or 3, wherein the agricultural crops include at least one of komatsuna, cabbage, broccoli, sunny lettuce, and tomato. (Appendix 5) A functional ingredient increaser according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the solution contains at least one of ammonium sulfate or urea dissolved therein. (Appendix 6) A functional ingredient increaser according to any one of Appendices 1 to 5, wherein the solution has a nitrate nitrogen concentration of 10 mM or more and 200 mM or less. (Appendix 7) The functional ingredient increaser according to Appendix 6, wherein potassium nitrate is further dissolved in the solution. (Appendix 8) 8. The functional ingredient increaser according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the nitrate nitrogen concentration is equal to or lower than the ammonia nitrogen concentration. (Appendix 9) A method for applying a functional ingredient increaser, comprising the step of applying to agricultural crops a solution of a functional ingredient increaser having an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM or more and 1000 mM or less. (Appendix 10) 10. The method for applying a functional ingredient increaser described in Appendix 9, wherein the applying step applies the functional ingredient increaser to the crop when the crop is in the seedling stage. (Appendix 11) 11. The method for applying a functional ingredient increaser according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the applying step applies the functional ingredient increaser to the crop at the stage of planting the crop. (Appendix 12) 12. The method for applying a functional ingredient increaser according to any one of Appendices 9 to 11, wherein the applying step applies the functional ingredient increaser to leaves of the crop. (Appendix 13) 13. The method for applying a functional ingredient increaser according to any one of Appendices 9 to 12, wherein the applying step applies the functional ingredient increaser to the roots of the crops.

[0203] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be embodied in various forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Furthermore, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, some components may be omitted from all components shown in the embodiments. Furthermore, components from different embodiments may be appropriately combined. The drawings mainly show each component in a schematic manner to facilitate understanding. The thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown may differ from the actual thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown in the above embodiments due to the convenience of drawing. Furthermore, the materials, shapes, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above embodiments are merely examples and are not particularly limited. Various modifications are possible within a scope that does not substantially deviate from the effects of the present invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0204] According to the present invention, the functional components of agricultural crops can be effectively increased.

Claims

1. A functional component increaser having a solution with an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM or more and 1000 mM or less.

2. The functional ingredient increaser according to claim 1 , which increases amino acids in agricultural crops.

3. The functional ingredient increaser according to claim 2 , wherein the agricultural crop belongs to at least one of the Brassicaceae, Asteraceae, and Solanaceae families.

4. The functional ingredient increaser according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the agricultural crops include at least one of komatsuna, cabbage, broccoli, sunny lettuce, and tomato.

5. The functional ingredient increaser according to claim 1 , wherein the solution contains at least one of ammonium sulfate and urea dissolved therein.

6. The functional ingredient increaser according to claim 1 , wherein the solution has a nitrate nitrogen concentration of 10 mM or more and 200 mM or less.

7. The functional ingredient increaser according to claim 6 , wherein the solution further contains dissolved potassium nitrate.

8. The functional ingredient increaser according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the nitrate nitrogen concentration is equal to or lower than the ammonia nitrogen concentration.

9. A method for applying a functional component increaser, comprising the step of applying to agricultural crops a solution of the functional component increaser having an ammonia nitrogen concentration of 100 mM or more and 1000 mM or less.

10. The method for applying a functional ingredient increaser according to claim 9 , wherein the applying step applies the functional ingredient increaser to the crop when the crop is in the seedling stage.

11. 10. The method for applying a functional ingredient increaser according to claim 9, wherein the applying step applies the functional ingredient increaser to the crop at a stage when the crop is planted.

12. The method for applying a functional ingredient increaser according to claim 9 , wherein the applying step applies the functional ingredient increaser to leaves of the crop.

13. The method for applying a functional ingredient increaser according to claim 9 , wherein the applying step applies the functional ingredient increaser to the roots of the crops.

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