The Role of Isotopic Profiling in Identifying Organic and Biodynamic Practices in Vitis Labrusca Grape Cultivation
Leonardelli L, Leonardelli S, Schwambach J 2024
Abstract
This study investigated nitrogen, carbon, and oxygen isotopes to differentiate fertilizers used in grape cultivation. The hypothesis posited that organic and biodynamic practices yield distinct signatures compared to conventional. It is the first study to address nitrogen isotopic in Vitis labrusca grapes. A total of 120 grape samples, including organic, biodynamic, and conventional, were analysed. The findings revealed that organic and biodynamic exhibited similar nitrogen isotopic values, distinctly higher than those conventional. Carbon values also differed significantly, with organic and biodynamic showing less negative values than conventional. An intermediate group suggested cross-contamination or transitional farming practices. Oxygen is less efficient in identifying the practice of grape cultivation. The results underscore the effectiveness of isotopic profiling in verifying organic and biodynamic certifications, providing insights into agricultural practices, and supporting the authenticity of organic and biodynamic labelling. This study highlights nitrogen as a method for ensuring the integrity of grape cultivation.
Keywords: viticulture, sustainable agriculture, Fertilizer, Environmental impact, organic certification