Research Accomplishment Reports 2011

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Formation and Reduction of Tobacco-specific N-nitrosamines (TSNA) in Dark Tobaccos

W. A. Bailey
Department of Plant and Soil Sciences

 

Non-Technical Summary

Tobacco specific N-Nitrosamines (TSNA) are carcinogenic substances that have been identified in tobacco products. This project evaluates current levels of TSNA in dark tobaccos as well as the effects of common dark tobacco production practices such as nitrogen fertility, topping, harvesting, and housing methods on TSNA formation. This project also evaluates the effect of preharvest antioxidant applications on TSNA formation in dark tobacco.