Deterioration of agronomic traits and depletion of nutritional content in three varieties of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grown in arsenic contaminated soil

Aim Arsenic (As), a class 1 carcinogen, poses a significant threat to crop productivity and food security due to its accumulation in edible plant parts. This study evaluates the effects of sodium arsenate (As⁵⁺) (0, 10, 20, 40, 60, and 100 mg kg⁻¹) on three wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) varieties-HD2824, HD3171, and HD2733. Methods Agronomic traits were assessed, and grain size variations were analyzed using a stereomicroscope. Arsenic accumulation in grains was quantified via Hydride Generation Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (HG-AAS). Proximate composition (moisture, ash, fat, fiber, protein, and carbohydrate) was determined using FTIR, while wet and dry gluten content was also evaluated using hand washing method. Micronutrient levels (Ca, Cu, Fe, Zn) were measured using AAS, and fatty acid composition was analyzed via GC-MS. Results agronomic traits and grain size declined with increasing As concentration. The highest arsenic accumulation (0.82 mg kg⁻¹) was recorded in HD2733 at 60 mg kg⁻¹ treatment. FTIR spectra confirmed changes in proximate contents, while HD2733 exhibited the lowest wet (20.35%) and dry gluten (4.77%) content. Micronutrient levels significantly decreased in selected varieties. GC-MS analysis indicated the absence of essential volatile compounds and the formation of new toxic compounds. Conclusion Overall, As exposure led to agronomic deterioration and nutritional losses in wheat flour, highlighting potential risks to human health. This study underscores the need for mitigation strategies to ensure wheat quality and safety in arsenic-contaminated regions.