Microgreens of tropical edible-seed species, an economical source of phytonutrients- insights into nutrient content, growth environment and shelf life

Abstract

Microgreens of six tropical edible-seed species categorized as pulse (green gram, horse gram), vegetable (mustard, amaranthus), millet (ragi) and cereal (wheat) were evaluated with an objective of studying the suitability of different growing media, growth condition, storage container and storage temperature. The six microgreens were also evaluated for the sensory qualities, nutrient composition, yield, seed to biomass ratio and benefit cost ratio. Yield and seedling height of microgreens were significantly influenced by the growing media, however there was no statistically significant difference in the nutrient composition of microgreens grown in the five different media. The fresh yield and dry yield of microgreens was recorded to be highest when grown on cocopeat media. Among the species, yield was highest for green gram microgreens, followed by mustard and horse gram. Rain shelter cultivation of microgreens promoted yield whereas the cultivation under room condition resulted in longer seedlings. The nutrient content (iron, calcium, beta carotene, protein, crude fiber, crude protein etc.) was higher in rain shelter grown microgreens. The microgreens grown indoor had better sensory qualities than when raised in rain shelter. Microgreens had higher shelf life when stored in PPE zip lock bags at lower temperature. Overall, microgreens of these tropical species can be an economic and nutritious supplement to regular vegetables.