Effect of biofertilizers on the content of bioactive components of common bean under open field and greenhouse cultivation conditions

Background: Biofertilizers are important in improving the qualitative and biochemical properties of plants by increasing the quality of the soil, which is directly related to obtaining quality and functional food. Their use is particularly valuable in the cultivation of common beans, which serve as an alternative protein source, that are rich in micronutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins, and possess many medicinal values. By enhancing these qualities through biofertilizer application, common beans can become an important functional food in people’s daily diets. Objective: The main objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of biofertilizer application in the context of improving food functionality on the content of bioactive components (dry matter, total sugars, ascorbic acid, total proteins) of green bean pods and grains. Methods: The study evaluated the effects of three biofertilizers —Fulvomix and Ecobiofid+ (of Armenian origin) and Biomix 1 (of Indian origin)—on the biomorphological, biochemical properties and functional processes of bean crops. Fertilizers were applied during pre-sowing treatments, early intensive growth, and fruiting stages. The experiments were carried out in both open fields and greenhouses, with four repetitions on experimental plots measuring 20 square meters each. Soil analysis, along with the biochemical composition of bean pods and grains, was performed in accordance with the accepted methodology. Results: As a result of the applied biofertilizers, an increase in the content of dry matter, vitamin C, total sugars, and proteins was recorded in green pods and beans. The highest results were recorded with the use of Ecobiofid + biofertilizer․ Conclusion: The application of three biofertilizers contributes to increasing the functional properties of green pods and grain, due to the improvement of the structural quality of the soil, as well as the increase of the indicators of biochemical, bioactive compounds. The positive effect of the applied biofertilizers on the quality indicators and functionality of green pods and grains, as well as on the productivity of the plant, allows the tested semi-fertilizers to be offered to production as a basis for organic farming and the production of healthy, functional food. Keywords: Common beans, Phaseolus vugaris L., biofertilizers, biochemical, organic agriculture, cultivar, seeds.