Characterization of the Maximal Nutritional Value of Lactuca sativa (Lettuce) Based upon Elemental Analysis

Abstract

Multielemental content of the Lactuca sativa (lettuce) was monitored during 7 weeks of growth in order to identify the optimal harvest period from the maximum nutritional point of view. Spring and tap water, having a slight difference in terms of element content, were used for plant growth. The most important accumulation of macrominerals, in leaves, is reached during the first stage of growth, which leads to a maximum nutritional contribution, corresponding to immature plants. From the third week, the maximum elemental accumulation was concentrated in roots. This study highlights the variation of the elemental content of Lactuca sativa among growing stages.