Wheat production management in saline soils through the use of vinasse

Background: In the context of global climate change, rising temperatures, water scarcity, and anthropogenic factors have accelerated land degradation processes. Salinization, a key driver of degradation, poses a significant threat to food security by drastically reducing crop productivity. Wheat, a staple crop crucial for food security, is highly susceptible to osmotic stress and ionic toxicity caused by salinization. Consequently, the desalination and dealkalinization of saline soils are crucial to support agricultural intensification.  Objective: This study investigates the effectiveness of vinasse, a by-product of alcohol production, as a soil ameliorant for saline-alkaline soils and evaluates the qualitative and quantitative properties of wheat cultivated on reclaimed lands. Vinasse is a weak acid suspension containing organic matter and solid minerals.  Methods: The research was conducted in 2023–2024 under field conditions. Saline soils were treated with vinasse, followed by soil washing, and winter wheat was cultivated in the reclaimed soil.  Results: The application of vinasse neutralized the alkali reaction of the soil solution, displaced sodium from the soil’s absorption complex, and resulted in the desalination and dealkalinization of the soil profile. Winter wheat cultivated on the improved soil yielded 3.4 t/ha. Chemical analysis of the wheat grains demonstrated high nutritional value and functionality, which are of significant importance.  Conclusion: Vinasse is an effective agent for the chemical improvement of saline-alkaline soils. The slow interaction between tartaric acid in vinasse and soil carbonates ensures the gradual neutralization of alkali reactions and enhances soil quality throughout the profile. Wheat grown in the reclaimed soil exhibited superior qualitative and functional properties, highlighting the potential of vinasse in agricultural applications.  Keywords: Vinasse, reclamation, functional food, winter wheat, desalination, dealkalinization.