The Impact of Static Magnetic Fields on the Quality of Forage Pea: A Multidimensional Assessment

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of static magnetic fields of varying intensities (0, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9, and 1.1 Tesla) applied to forage pea (Pisum sativum ssp. arvense L.) seeds on physiological parameters, antioxidant defense systems, and forage quality. The magnetic field treatments were applied to the seeds for 10 minutes, after which the seeds were grown under controlled climate conditions for 28 days. In addition to physiological parameters such as chlorophyll and carotenoid content, various biochemical parameters including MDA, proline, SOD, CAT, and APX were assessed, along with total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, DPPH radical scavenging capacity, crude protein content, ADF, NDF, and nutrient composition (K, Ca, Mg, P). According to the results, especially the 0.7 T and 0.9 T SMFtreatments led to increases in chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll content and had regulatory effects on proline and MDA levels. At the same doses, significant increases were observed in total phenolic content, flavonoid levels, and antioxidant enzyme activities. PCA and heatmap analyses further supported that these treatments positively influenced key determinants of forage quality. In conclusion, moderate-intensity SMFtreatments improved physiological and biochemical processes in forage pea seedlings, promoted secondary metabolite production, and enhanced overall forage quality. In this context, magneto-priming emerges as a sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural enhancement method.