Reflections and Challenges of Rare-Earth Elements in Agricultural Applications: High Promotion and Low Inhibition, Detection of Pesticide Residues, and Traceability and Anticounterfeiting of Agricultural Products

Rare-earth elements (REEs), characterized by their diverse chemical properties and forms, are increasingly recognized as valuable assets for enhancing agricultural production and improving the quality of agricultural products. This review systematically summarizes the significant positive impacts of REEs within the agricultural sector. Their unique characteristics can substantially enhance crop stress resistance, promote growth and development through improved photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, and increase yields. Moreover, REEs play a crucial role in innovative technologies for the rapid detection of pesticide residues, providing reliable solutions for traceability and anticounterfeiting measures related to agricultural products, thereby directly contributing to food safety. While acknowledging potential environmental and health risks associated with the excessive accumulation of REEs, this review primarily focuses on elucidating their substantial application value and underlying mechanisms. Finally, we address current challenges and future research directions with the aim of offering insightful perspectives on the sustainable and high-value utilization of rare-earth elements in modern agriculture.