Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The use of natural oils in agriculture has gained significant attention due to their potential benefits in pest control, plant growth promotion, and disease management. However, concerns have been raised regarding their possible mutagenic effects on crop plants. This study aimed to evaluate the mutagenic effect of natural oil on the chemical composition of maize (Zea mays). Maize plants were subjected to treatment with varying concentrations of natural oil, and the chemical composition of the maize kernels was analyzed. The concentrations of essential nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals were determined using standard analytical methods. Additionally, the presence of any mutagenic compounds in the maize samples was assessed through genotoxicity testing. The results indicated that the application of natural oil did not have a significant mutagenic effect on the chemical composition of maize. The levels of essential nutrients in the maize kernels remained within normal ranges and were not altered by the natural oil treatment. Furthermore, genotoxicity testing did not reveal the presence of mutagenic compounds in the maize samples treated with natural oil. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the potential mutagenic effects of natural oil on maize plants. The findings suggest that the use of natural oil as an agricultural input may not significantly impact the chemical composition of maize or pose mutagenic risks to consumers. However, further research is warranted to investigate the long-term effects of natural oil application on maize plants and to ensure the safety of using natural oils in agriculture. In conclusion, the evaluation of the possible mutagenic effect of natural oil on the chemical composition of maize is essential for ensuring food safety and environmental sustainability in agriculture. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the use of natural oils in crop production and highlights the importance of comprehensive risk assessments before the widespread adoption of natural oil-based products in agriculture.

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