We are starting to hear more and more the term microgreens or microplants. These names only reflect the growth size of the young plants. In order for a certain variety of seed to be classified as a microplant, it must be in the first stage of growth (the appearance of the first cotyledons – the stem and the first leaves). These small plants are considered as plants of the future or superfood due to the large amounts of nutrients, vitamins and minerals they contain.
When we choose to implement microplants in our menus or develop them to a business level, we need to know the following information:
- Micro-plants are not the same as germs. They grow in the substrate and develop like a normal plant with the help of light, water and air
- Growing micro-plants does not require the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers
- They can be grown in a controlled environment
- They have much more intense flavors compared to the mature plant/vegetable
- They contain 4 to 40 times more nutrients than the mature plant/vegetable. As an example we have wheat grass or broccoli sprouts. Consuming a small amount of wheatgrass juice provides an energy boost 2-3 times greater than a cup of coffee and broccoli microplants (35g) contain approximately 30 times more nutrients than 1 kg of mature vegetable .
- Microplants, regardless of the variety, bring significant benefits to the human body and have the ability to prevent or reduce the manifestation of certain ailments
- They can be staple food for vegans, etc.
Regardless of whether we produce them or purchase them, microplants require special storage conditions as they are perishable products. It is recommended that they be kept in the refrigerator between 4 and 7 degrees. Under these conditions they can be kept for approximately 7 days if certain essential steps are followed:
- It is recommended to water the plants before putting them in the refrigerator.
- They must be protected from the light inside the refrigerator.
- In order for the micro-plants to be kept as fresh as possible, it is necessary to control the air flow inside the refrigerator as much as possible, in order not to dehydrate the product.
- Microplants are permanently alive. Because of this, we will only cut them a few minutes before they are used/consumed.
