Abstract:The effects of a static magnetic field on germination and biological zinc enrichment of soybeans were investigated. The influences of static magnetic field strength (0, 15, 25, 35, and 45 mT) and treatment time (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5 h) on the germination rate, seedling length, fresh weight, and soluble protein content of soybeans were initially assessed. Next, after different concentrations of exogenous zinc sulfate (0, 40, 80, 120, 160, and 200 mg/L) were applied during germination, the effects of a static magnetic field strength and time of application (initial, intermediate, and final stages of germination) on the germination and protein zinc content of soybeans were evaluated. The results showed optimal soybean germination under the following conditions: a static magnetic field strength of 35 mT and a treatment time of 0.5 h. The seedling length (23.54 mm) and soluble protein content (384.28 mg/g) were significantly increased by 15.70% and 19.81%, respectively, compared to those of the control group. However, no significant differences were observed in the germination rate and fresh weight between the groups (P>0.05). In addition, compared with those of the control group, the total zinc content (106.68 mg/kg) and protein zinc content (27.37 mg/kg) of soybeans germinated for 24 h increased by 8.64% and 26.68%, respectively, after exposure to a static magnetic field (field strength, 35 mT; time, 0.5 h; intervention period, anaphase) combined with exogenous zinc sulfate (120 mg/L). In conclusion, an optimal combination of a static magnetic field and exogenous inorganic zinc can promote the germination of soybeans and induce the accumulation of proteintype biological zinc in soybeans. These findings provide a novel technology for the development of natural zinc-rich food ingredients.