soil-less cultivation
Description:
The cultivation of plants using a nutrient solution instead of soil; also called hydroponics
Context:
Soil-less cultivation is a method of growing plants without using traditional soil, often using water (hydroponics), nutrient solutions, or other growing media. It can allow more controlled growing conditions, reduce exposure to soil-borne pests or contaminants, and potentially improve food safety.
EFSA considers soil-less cultivation when assessing the safety of fruits, vegetables, and other crops. They evaluate whether this method affects the presence of contaminants, microbes, or chemical residues, providing scientific advice to ensure that foods grown in these systems are safe for consumers.