The impact of agricultural practices on food composition – A systematic review

Agricultural practices play a crucial role in shaping food composition, directly influencing nutritional quality and the ability to address food and health challenges. This review, conducted following PRISMA guidelines, evaluated the effects of agricultural interventions on crop composition. From 2271 articles identified across Scopus, Taylor & Francis, and CABI Direct, 190 studies were included. Fertilizer application was the most reported intervention, followed by bio-stimulants, irrigation strategies, and harvesting timing. Organic amendments and deficit irrigation increased phenolics and other bioactive compounds in fruits and vegetables. Macro- and micronutrient fertilizers enhanced protein, mineral, and antioxidant levels but, when misapplied, often led to nutrient dilution, antagonism, or reduced accumulation of other beneficial compounds. Foliar and soil amendments proved adequate zinc, iron, and selenium biofortification strategies in grains. Amino acid applications reduced heavy metal uptake in cereals grown in contaminated soils, lowering toxic exposure risks. Modern agricultural practices demonstrate strong potential to enhance crop nutrition and mitigate nutrient deficiencies, but these practices must be carefully managed to avoid unintended trade-offs that compromise food quality. These findings highlight the need for evidence-based, context-specific agricultural policies and farmer training to maximize nutritional gains while safeguarding long-term food security.