Mineral contents of Sri Lankan rice varieties as affected by inorganic fertilization

Application of inorganic fertilizers may incorporate minerals into rice grains. Distribution of minerals in rice grains vary in bran and kernel. The aim of the present study was to compare mineral contents (MCs) of bran and kernels of selected newly improved rice varieties in Sri Lanka with and without fertilizers. Twenty rice varieties were tested. Rice bran and rice kernels were analyzed for Ca, Mg, Mn and Zn using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Calcium contents of brans and kernels ranged from 952 to 1605 mg/kg and 613 to 1107 mg/kg dry matter in fertilized varieties, respectively. High MCs were observed in fertilizer applied varieties. Higher MCs were found in the bran of rice grains. The MCs of rice grains were significantly different among the varieties and affected by fertilizer application and processing. Applications of inorganic fertilizers strengthened the MCs of rice kernels and bran.