Agronomic management enhances nutritional quality and functional food potential of purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.): a review

Abstract

The growing global challenges of food insecurity posed by climate change, and micronutrient deficiencies have intensified interest in climate resilient, nutrient-dense functional foods. Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) is a promising candidate owing to its exceptional nutritional profile and adaptability to harsh agroecological conditions. This review provides a comprehensive and critical synthesis of existing literature on the agronomic management, nutritional composition, and functional food potential of purslane, with particular emphasis on its omega-3 fatty acid content and the role of nitrogen and mineral nutrition. The review reveals that purslane is a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), vitamins (C and E), carotenoids, minerals, and diverse bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its nutritional quality is highly variable and influenced by genotype, environmental conditions, cultivation systems, and nutrient management strategies. Nitrogen plays a dual role of enhancing biomass production while exerting complex, compound-specific effects on nutrient density, often leading to trade-offs between yield and quality. The novelty of this study lies in its integrated, multi-dimensional perspective that links agronomy, plant physiology, and nutritional science, moving beyond fragmented analyses in existing literature. It highlights the importance of genotype-by-environment interactions and introduces the concept of “nutritional efficiency” as a more appropriate framework than yield-focused optimization. This study contributes to knowledge by identifying critical gaps and proposing a systems-based approach for optimizing purslane as a sustainable, plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids and functional nutrients, particularly in resource-constrained and climate-vulnerable regions.