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Singh A, Singh J, Kaur S, Gunjal M, Kaur J, Nanda V, Ullah R, Ercisli S, Rasane P. Emergence of microgreens as a valuable food, current understanding of their market and consumer perception: A review. Food Chem X 2024; 23:101527. [PMID: 38974201 PMCID: PMC11225695 DOI: 10.1016/j.fochx.2024.101527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Green leafy vegetables, especially microgreens are gaining popularity due to their high nutritional profiles, rich phytochemical content, and intense flavors. This review explores the growing commercial market for microgreens, especially in upscale dining and premium grocery outlets, highlighting consumer perceptions and their effect on market dynamics. Apart from these, the effect of modern agricultural methods that maximize the growth of microgreens is also examined. The value is anticipated to increase significantly, according to market predictions, from $1.7 billion in 2022 to $2.61 billion by 2029. Positive consumer views on microgreens health benefits drive this growth, although challenges such as varying levels of consumer awareness and income disparities affect sales. The review underscores the need for targeted research and strategic initiatives to enhance consumer understanding and improve cultivation methods to support market expansion in upcoming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishvina Singh
- Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Jyoti Singh
- Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Sawinder Kaur
- Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Mahendra Gunjal
- Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Jaspreet Kaur
- Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Vikas Nanda
- Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology, Sangrur, Punjab 148106, India
| | - Riaz Ullah
- Medicinal Aromatic and Poisonous Plants Research Center College of Pharmacy, King Saud University Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sezai Ercisli
- Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Ataturk University, Erzurum 25240, Türkiye
| | - Prasad Rasane
- Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, 144411, Punjab, India
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Bafumo RF, Alloggia FP, Ramirez DA, Maza MA, Fontana A, Moreno DA, Camargo AB. Optimal Brassicaceae family microgreens from a phytochemical and sensory perspective. Food Res Int 2024; 193:114812. [PMID: 39160037 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Microgreens, also called superfoods, emerge because of their high levels of nutrients, diverse flavour profiles, and sustainable cultivation methods, which make them culinary delights and valuable to a healthy and flavorful diet. The present study investigated Brassicaceae family microgreens, proposing a novel system (quality indices) that allows scoring among them. Fourteen Brassica microgreen species were morphological, phytochemical, and sensorial investigated. The morphological assessment revealed that radish microgreens exhibited the highest leaf area (p < 0.05), while red mizuna demonstrated superior yield. Cauliflower microgreens contained the highest concentrations of ascorbic acid (HPLC-DAD) and total phenolic content (p < 0.05). Phytochemical analysis using HPLC-MS/MS identified over 18 glucosinolates and phenolic compounds. Red mustard and red cabbage showed the highest glucosinolate content (p < 0.05). Watercress exhibited the highest phenolic compound content (p < 0.05), primarily flavonoids, while broccoli and radish contained the highest isothiocyanate levels. Cauliflower microgreens resulted in the most consumer-accepted variety. Appling quality indices scoring system identified radish, cauliflower, and broccoli microgreens as the most promising species. This study underscores the potential of Brassica microgreens as an excellent source of health-promoting phytochemicals with favorable market acceptance, providing valuable insights for both nutritional research and commercial applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto F Bafumo
- Laboratorio de Cromatografía para Agroalimentos, Instituto de Biología Agrícola de Mendoza, CONICET y Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Alte. Brown 500, Chacras de Coria, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Florencia P Alloggia
- Laboratorio de Cromatografía para Agroalimentos, Instituto de Biología Agrícola de Mendoza, CONICET y Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Alte. Brown 500, Chacras de Coria, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Daniela A Ramirez
- Laboratorio de Cromatografía para Agroalimentos, Instituto de Biología Agrícola de Mendoza, CONICET y Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Alte. Brown 500, Chacras de Coria, Mendoza, Argentina; Cátedra de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, UNCuyo, Mendoza, Argentina Institución, Alte. Brown 500, Chacras de Coria, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Marcos A Maza
- Laboratorio de Cromatografía para Agroalimentos, Instituto de Biología Agrícola de Mendoza, CONICET y Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Alte. Brown 500, Chacras de Coria, Mendoza, Argentina; Catedra de Enología I, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, UNCuyo, Mendoza, Argentina Institución, Alte. Brown 500, Chacras de Coria, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Ariel Fontana
- Grupo de Bioquímica Vegetal, Instituto de Biología Agrícola de Mendoza, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas-Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Almirante Brown 500, M5528AHB Chacras de Coria, Argentina
| | - Diego A Moreno
- Laboratorio de Fitoquímica y Alimentos Saludables (LabFAS), CEBAS, CSIC, Campus Universitario de Espinardo - 25, E-30100 Murcia, Spain.
| | - Alejandra B Camargo
- Laboratorio de Cromatografía para Agroalimentos, Instituto de Biología Agrícola de Mendoza, CONICET y Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Alte. Brown 500, Chacras de Coria, Mendoza, Argentina; Cátedra de Química Analítica, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, UNCuyo, Mendoza, Argentina Institución, Alte. Brown 500, Chacras de Coria, Mendoza, Argentina.
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3
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Lone JK, Pandey R, Gayacharan. Microgreens on the rise: Expanding our horizons from farm to fork. Heliyon 2024; 10:e25870. [PMID: 38390124 PMCID: PMC10881865 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Escalating public health concerns necessitate innovative approaches to food sources. Microgreens, nutrient-rich seedlings of vegetables and herbs, have gained recognition as functional foods. This review explores the evolution of microgreens, cultivation methods, biochemical changes during germination, nutritional content, health benefits, and commercial significance. Comprehensive studies have demonstrated that microgreens have an elevated level of various nutrients. Further, in vitro and in vivo research validated their antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and antidiabetic properties. Microgreens, termed "desert food," show promise for sustainable food production in climate-vulnerable regions. This paper synthesizes recent research on microgreens, addressing challenges and gaps in understanding their nutritional content and health benefits. It contributes valuable insights for future research, fostering sustainable agriculture and enhancing understanding of microgreens in human health and nutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jafar K. Lone
- ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi, 110012, India
| | - Renu Pandey
- Division of Plant Physiology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, 110012, India
| | - Gayacharan
- ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi, 110012, India
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Belošević SD, Milinčić DD, Gašić UM, Kostić AŽ, Salević-Jelić AS, Marković JM, Đorđević VB, Lević SM, Pešić MB, Nedović VA. Broccoli, Amaranth, and Red Beet Microgreen Juices: The Influence of Cold-Pressing on the Phytochemical Composition and the Antioxidant and Sensory Properties. Foods 2024; 13:757. [PMID: 38472870 DOI: 10.3390/foods13050757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze in detail the phytochemical composition of amaranth (AMJ), red beet (RBJ), and broccoli (BCJ) microgreens and cold-pressed juices and to evaluate the antioxidant and sensory properties of the juices. The results showed the presence of various phenolic compounds in all samples, namely betalains in amaranth and red beet microgreens, while glucosinolates were only detected in broccoli microgreens. Phenolic acids and derivatives dominated in amaranth and broccoli microgreens, while apigenin C-glycosides were most abundant in red beet microgreens. Cold-pressing of microgreens into juice significantly altered the profiles of bioactive compounds. Various isothiocyanates were detected in BCJ, while more phenolic acid aglycones and their derivatives with organic acids (quinic acid and malic acid) were identified in all juices. Microgreen juices exhibited good antioxidant properties, especially ABTS•+ scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power. Microgreen juices had mild acidity, low sugar content, and good sensory acceptability and quality with the typical flavors of the respective microgreen species. Cold-pressed microgreen juices from AMJ, RBJ, and BCJ represent a rich source of bioactive compounds and can be characterized as novel functional products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spasoje D Belošević
- Food Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Food Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, Nemanjina 6, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Danijel D Milinčić
- Food Chemistry and Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Food Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, Nemanjina 6, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Uroš M Gašić
- Department of Plant Physiology, Institute for Biological Research Siniša Stanković-National Institute of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Aleksandar Ž Kostić
- Food Chemistry and Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Food Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, Nemanjina 6, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana S Salević-Jelić
- Food Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Food Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, Nemanjina 6, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jovana M Marković
- Food Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Food Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, Nemanjina 6, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Verica B Đorđević
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Karnegijeva 4, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Steva M Lević
- Food Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Food Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, Nemanjina 6, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Mirjana B Pešić
- Food Chemistry and Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Food Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, Nemanjina 6, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Viktor A Nedović
- Food Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Food Technology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, Nemanjina 6, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia
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Lee JH, Kwon YB, Roh YH, Choi IL, Kim J, Kim Y, Yoon HS, Kang HM. Effect of Various LED Light Qualities, Including Wide Red Spectrum-LED, on the Growth and Quality of Mini Red Romaine Lettuce (cv. Breen). PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2056. [PMID: 37653973 PMCID: PMC10223557 DOI: 10.3390/plants12102056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Recently, LEDs with various light qualities have been used in closed plant factories, and they are known to have different effects on the growth and quality of crops. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the change in growth and quality in mini red romaine lettuce using LEDs with various light qualities. Wide red spectrum (WRS)-LEDs, blue (B)-LEDs, blue + red (BR)-LEDs, red (R)-LEDs, and white (W)-LEDs were used as the artificial light sources. Regarding growth, the R-LED treatment showed the most positive effect, but the leaf shape was not normal and the Hunter b* value was not suitable because it was higher than that of the other treatments. The Hunter a*, SPAD, and NDVI values of the B- and BR-LED treatments were effective, but this was not the case for those of the R- and W-LED treatments. The anthocyanin reflectance index 1 (ARI1) was 20 times higher in the B-LED treatment than in the R-LED treatment, and the ascorbic acid content was the highest in the WRS-LED treatment. In the sensory evaluation, bitterness and sweetness showed opposite tendencies. Regarding the overall preference, the BR-LED treatment received the highest score. Correlation analysis showed that the bitterness was closely correlated with the anthocyanin content and leaf color. Taken together, BR-LEDs provided a good top fresh weight, dark red leaves, and high anthocyanin and ascorbic acid contents, with the highest overall preference; therefore, BR-LEDs were the most suitable for the cultivation of mini red romaine lettuce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joo Hwan Lee
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (J.H.L.); (Y.B.K.); (Y.H.R.)
| | - Yong Beom Kwon
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (J.H.L.); (Y.B.K.); (Y.H.R.)
| | - Yoo Han Roh
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (J.H.L.); (Y.B.K.); (Y.H.R.)
| | - In-Lee Choi
- Agricultural and Life Science Research Institute, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea;
| | - Jidong Kim
- FutureGreen Co., Ltd., Yongin 17095, Republic of Korea;
| | - Yongduk Kim
- Cheorwon Plasma Research Institute, Cheorwon 24062, Republic of Korea;
| | - Hyuk Sung Yoon
- The Waksman Institute of Microbiology, Rutgers the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Ho-Min Kang
- Interdisciplinary Program in Smart Agriculture, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea; (J.H.L.); (Y.B.K.); (Y.H.R.)
- Agricultural and Life Science Research Institute, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea;
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6
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Yeargin TA, Lin Z, do Prado I, Sirsat SA, Gibson KE. Consumer practices and perceptions regarding the purchasing and handling of microgreens in the United States. Food Control 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.109470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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7
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Dayarathna NN, Gama-Arachchige NS, Damunupola JW, Xiao Z, Gamage A, Merah O, Madhujith T. Effect of Storage Temperature on Storage Life and Sensory Attributes of Packaged Mustard Microgreens. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020393. [PMID: 36836750 PMCID: PMC9966302 DOI: 10.3390/life13020393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Short shelf life limits the commercial value of mustard microgreens. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different storage temperatures on postharvest quality and sensory attributes of mustard microgreens to identify the optimum storage temperature. Mustard microgreens were stored at 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 °C in 150 µm polyethylene bags. Samples were drawn at 0, 1, 2, 4, 7, 10, and 14 days and tested for changes in total chlorophyll content, tissue electrolyte leakage, weight loss, antioxidant activity, and sensory attributes. Storage temperature significantly (p < 0.05) affected the product quality, shelf life, and sensory quality. When stored at 5 °C, mustard microgreens showed no significant changes in antioxidant activity or tissue electrolyte leakage and minimal change in other parameters and maintained good overall sensory quality for 14 days. Samples stored at 10 and 15 °C retained good overall sensory quality for 4 and 2 days, respectively. When stored at 20 and 25 °C, microgreens deteriorated beyond consumption within one day. A storage temperature of 5 °C in 150 µm polythene bags can preserve high postharvest quality and sensory attributes for 14 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayani N. Dayarathna
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - Nalin S. Gama-Arachchige
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka
- Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka
- Correspondence: (N.S.G.-A.); (O.M.); Tel.: +94-776669844 (N.S.G.-A.); +33-(0)5-34323523 (O.M.)
| | - Jilushi W. Damunupola
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka
- Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - Zhenlei Xiao
- Department of Culinary Science and Product Development, College of Food Innovation & Technology, Johnson & Wales University, Providence, RI 02905, USA
| | - Ashoka Gamage
- Chemical and Process Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - Othmane Merah
- Laboratoire de Chimie Agro-Industrielle (LCA), Université de Toulouse, INRAe, INPT, 31030 Toulouse, France
- Département Génie Biologique, Université Paul Sabatier, IUT A, 32000 Auch, France
- Correspondence: (N.S.G.-A.); (O.M.); Tel.: +94-776669844 (N.S.G.-A.); +33-(0)5-34323523 (O.M.)
| | - Terrence Madhujith
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya 20400, Sri Lanka
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Bhaswant M, Shanmugam DK, Miyazawa T, Abe C, Miyazawa T. Microgreens-A Comprehensive Review of Bioactive Molecules and Health Benefits. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28020867. [PMID: 36677933 PMCID: PMC9864543 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28020867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Microgreens, a hypothesized term used for the emerging food product that is developed from various commercial food crops, such as vegetables, grains, and herbs, consist of developed cotyledons along with partially expanded true leaves. These immature plants are harvested between 7-21 days (depending on variety). They are treasured for their densely packed nutrients, concentrated flavors, immaculate and tender texture as well as for their vibrant colors. In recent years, microgreens are on demand from high-end restaurant chefs and nutritional researchers due to their potent flavors, appealing sensory qualities, functionality, abundance in vitamins, minerals, and other bioactive compounds, such as ascorbic acid, tocopherol, carotenoids, folate, tocotrienols, phylloquinones, anthocyanins, glucosinolates, etc. These qualities attracted research attention for use in the field of human health and nutrition. Increasing public concern regarding health has prompted humans to turn to microgreens which show potential in the prevention of malnutrition, inflammation, and other chronic ailments. This article focuses on the applications of microgreens in the prevention of the non-communicable diseases that prevails in the current generation, which emerged due to sedentary lifestyles, thus laying a theoretical foundation for the people creating awareness to switch to the recently introduced category of vegetable and providing great value for the development of health-promoting diets with microgreens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maharshi Bhaswant
- Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600119, India
- New Industry Creation Hatchery Center (NICHe), Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8579, Japan
| | - Dilip Kumar Shanmugam
- Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600119, India
| | - Taiki Miyazawa
- New Industry Creation Hatchery Center (NICHe), Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8579, Japan
| | - Chizumi Abe
- New Industry Creation Hatchery Center (NICHe), Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8579, Japan
| | - Teruo Miyazawa
- New Industry Creation Hatchery Center (NICHe), Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8579, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-22-795-3205
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A novel method for analyzing mineral ratio profiles of treated buckwheat sprouts (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench). J Food Compost Anal 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jfca.2022.104800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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10
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Ebert AW. Sprouts and Microgreens-Novel Food Sources for Healthy Diets. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:plants11040571. [PMID: 35214902 PMCID: PMC8877763 DOI: 10.3390/plants11040571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
With the growing interest of society in healthy eating, the interest in fresh, ready-to-eat, functional food, such as microscale vegetables (sprouted seeds and microgreens), has been on the rise in recent years globally. This review briefly describes the crops commonly used for microscale vegetable production, highlights Brassica vegetables because of their health-promoting secondary metabolites (polyphenols, glucosinolates), and looks at consumer acceptance of sprouts and microgreens. Apart from the main crops used for microscale vegetable production, landraces, wild food plants, and crops' wild relatives often have high phytonutrient density and exciting flavors and tastes, thus providing the scope to widen the range of crops and species used for this purpose. Moreover, the nutritional value and content of phytochemicals often vary with plant growth and development within the same crop. Sprouted seeds and microgreens are often more nutrient-dense than ungerminated seeds or mature vegetables. This review also describes the environmental and priming factors that may impact the nutritional value and content of phytochemicals of microscale vegetables. These factors include the growth environment, growing substrates, imposed environmental stresses, seed priming and biostimulants, biofortification, and the effect of light in controlled environments. This review also touches on microgreen market trends. Due to their short growth cycle, nutrient-dense sprouts and microgreens can be produced with minimal input; without pesticides, they can even be home-grown and harvested as needed, hence having low environmental impacts and a broad acceptance among health-conscious consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas W Ebert
- World Vegetable Center, 60 Yi-Min Liao, Shanhua, Tainan 74151, Taiwan
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11
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Palmieri N, Stefanoni W, Latterini F, Pari L. Factors Influencing Italian Consumers’ Willingness to Pay for Eggs Enriched with Omega-3-Fatty Acids. Foods 2022; 11:foods11040545. [PMID: 35206022 PMCID: PMC8870929 DOI: 10.3390/foods11040545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper focused on eggs enriched with omega-3-fatty acids with the aim of understanding if functional eggs were of interest to Italian consumers, and analyzing which characteristics of table egg quality, consumers’ attitudes and socio-demographic characteristics affect the consumers’ willingness to pay (WTP) a premium price for eggs enriched with omega-3-fatty acids. We performed an online survey on 312 Italian consumers. The analysis was based on the Tobit regression model. The findings showed that unmarried females were more willing to pay a premium price for functional eggs than male consumers. Furthermore, the probability of showing a higher WTP for functional eggs increased among consumers reporting a higher income. Moreover, the WTP for functional eggs increased with the growing importance that people attributed to items such as the size of eggs, rearing type, feed given to chickens, and the provenience and brand of eggs. These results suggested that consumers need to have clear information about functional eggs. As expected, WTP for functional eggs decreased with increasing neophobia and food techno-neophobia factors. In conclusion, the findings showed an interesting potential for eggs enriched with omega-3-fatty acids, which seems to be a product with high possibility to be greatly appreciated on the market, especially if accompanied by a good, informative campaign for increasing people’s knowledge level.
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Kondratenko EP, Vityaz SN, Miroshina TA, Kuznetsov A. Microgreens - biologically complete product of the XXI century. BIO WEB OF CONFERENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1051/bioconf/20224201002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Microgreens are a new functional food crop that can facilitate adaptation to urbanization and global climate change, and improve human health. The research was carried out in 2021 at the Department of Landscape Architecture of the Kuzbass State Agricultural Academy. The aim of the research was to study the technology of cultivation of microgreens of the Brassicaceae family on an aqueous substrate. The objects of research were the seeds of cultivated plants of the Brassicaceae family: Brassica oleracea Broccoli Group broccoli or asparagus, Fortuna, Raphanus sativus radish, Violetta, Lepidium sativum, watercress, Dansky, and Eruca versicaria, arugula, Sicily. It was revealed that microgreens can be obtained from seeds of the Brassicaceae family in 6-12 days. Such a product does not have time to accumulate harmful substances from the atmosphere in a short period of time. When growing microgreens, it is not necessary to use mineral fertilizers, pesticides and, thus, it is possible to obtain environmentally friendly, biologically useful products with low material costs. It was found that, depending on the seeds of the studied crops and their genotype, the cycle of growing microgreens lasts from 6 to 10 days after germination. Depending on the type of culture, the sprouts reached a height of 5-10 cm. The laboratory germination rate was 96-98%.
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13
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Ayeni A. Nutrient Content of Micro/Baby-Green and Field-Grown Mature Foliage of Tropical Spinach ( Amaranthus sp.) and Roselle ( Hibiscus sabdariffa L.). Foods 2021; 10:foods10112546. [PMID: 34828825 PMCID: PMC8619766 DOI: 10.3390/foods10112546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Micro/baby-greens are gaining popularity in human diets as functional foods that deliver superior nutritional values and health benefits to consumers. This study conducted multiple times between 2017 and 2019 under greenhouse conditions and in the field at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA, showed that micro/baby-greens from tropical spinach (Amaranthus sp.) and roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) are rich in digestible carbohydrates, digestible protein, and dietary fiber. On dry weight basis, both vegetables have high relative percentages of P, K, and Mg; and relatively high ppm Fe, Mn, and Zn. Foliage tissues of both species are relatively low in total fat, Ca, and Cu. Between 10 and 20 days after sowing (DAS), percent digestible carbohydrates in fresh foliar tissue increased 100% in tropical spinach and 50% in roselle, while digestible protein dropped 21% in tropical spinach and 50% in roselle. Compared to field grown mature foliage, greenhouse-grown micro/baby-greens were lower in digestible carbohydrates and Ca but higher in digestible protein, P, K, Mg, Fe, Mn, and Zn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Ayeni
- Plant Biology Department, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, 59 Dudley Road, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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Teng J, Liao P, Wang M. The role of emerging micro-scale vegetables in human diet and health benefits-an updated review based on microgreens. Food Funct 2021; 12:1914-1932. [PMID: 33595583 DOI: 10.1039/d0fo03299a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Increasing public concern about health has prompted humans to find new sources of food. Microgreens are young and immature plants that have been recently introduced as a new category of vegetables, adapting their production at the micro-scale. In this paper, the chemical compositions including micro-nutrients and some typical phytochemicals of microgreens are summarized. Their edible safety and potential health benefits are also reviewed. Microgreens play an increasingly vital role in health-promoting diets. They are considered good sources of nutritional and bioactive compounds, and show potential in the prevention of malnutrition and chronic diseases. Some strategies in the pre- or post-harvest stages of microgreens can be further applied to obtain better nutritional, functional, and sensorial quality with freshness and extended shelf life. This review provides valuable nutrient data and health information for microgreens, laying a theoretical foundation for people to consume microgreens more wisely, and providing great value for the development of functional products with microgreens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Teng
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, P.R. China
| | - Pan Liao
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Mingfu Wang
- College of Food Science and Technology, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, P.R. China and School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P.R. China.
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15
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Sustainable Agri-Food Systems: Environment, Economy, Society, and Policy. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13116260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Agri-food systems (AFS) have been central in the debate on sustainable development. Despite this growing interest in AFS, comprehensive analyses of the scholarly literature are hard to find. Therefore, the present systematic review delineated the contours of this growing research strand and analyzed how it relates to sustainability. A search performed on the Web of Science in January 2020 yielded 1389 documents, and 1289 were selected and underwent bibliometric and topical analyses. The topical analysis was informed by the SAFA (Sustainability Assessment of Food and Agriculture systems) approach of FAO and structured along four dimensions viz. environment, economy, society and culture, and policy and governance. The review shows an increasing interest in AFS with an exponential increase in publications number. However, the study field is north-biased and dominated by researchers and organizations from developed countries. Moreover, the analysis suggests that while environmental aspects are sufficiently addressed, social, economic, and political ones are generally overlooked. The paper ends by providing directions for future research and listing some topics to be integrated into a comprehensive, multidisciplinary agenda addressing the multifaceted (un)sustainability of AFS. It makes the case for adopting a holistic, 4-P (planet, people, profit, policy) approach in agri-food system studies.
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16
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Topolska K, Florkiewicz A, Filipiak-Florkiewicz A. Functional Food-Consumer Motivations and Expectations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18105327. [PMID: 34067768 PMCID: PMC8156986 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18105327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This review provides insight into consumer attitudes toward functional food (FF), with the purpose of better understanding the needs and behavior regarding this kind of product. A total of 47 articles were selected for this paper. The available studies from last 20 years differ according to the focus (awareness, attitudes, motivations, willingness, acceptance by consumers) and methodologies used. Several factors, including socio-demographic, cognitive and attitudinal ones, seem to be serve as the basis for the acceptance of functional products. The research papers showed that nutritional knowledge is the most important of these. Older people are more interested in functional products than younger consumers, because of their stronger belief in the health benefits of FF. Moreover, women are more open to compromise between taste and health properties. Claims concerning the disease preventative properties of FF are the most attractive for consumers. This review focuses also on future perspectives for the functional food market. Adequate knowledge and evidence-based communication seem to be the most promising ways to increase consumers’ interest in these kinds of products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinga Topolska
- Department of Plant Product Technology and Nutrition Hygiene, Faculty of Food Technology, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-149 Kraków, Poland;
- Correspondence:
| | - Adam Florkiewicz
- Department of Food Analysis and Quality Assessment, Faculty of Food Technology, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-149 Kraków, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Filipiak-Florkiewicz
- Department of Plant Product Technology and Nutrition Hygiene, Faculty of Food Technology, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 30-149 Kraków, Poland;
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Johnson SA, Prenni JE, Heuberger AL, Isweiri H, Chaparro JM, Newman SE, Uchanski ME, Omerigic HM, Michell KA, Bunning M, Foster MT, Thompson HJ, Weir TL. Comprehensive Evaluation of Metabolites and Minerals in 6 Microgreen Species and the Influence of Maturity. Curr Dev Nutr 2021; 5:nzaa180. [PMID: 33644632 PMCID: PMC7897203 DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzaa180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microgreens are the young leafy greens of many vegetables, herbs, grains, and flowers with potential to promote human health and sustainably diversify the global food system. For successful further integration into the global food system and evaluation of their health impacts, it is critical to elucidate and optimize their nutritional quality. OBJECTIVES We aimed to comprehensively evaluate the metabolite and mineral contents of 6 microgreen species, and the influence of maturity on their contents. METHODS Plant species evaluated were from the Brassicaceae (arugula, broccoli, and red cabbage), Amaranthaceae (red beet and red amaranth), and Fabaceae (pea) plant families. Nontargeted metabolomics and ionomics analyses were performed to examine the metabolites and minerals, respectively, in each microgreen species and its mature counterpart. RESULTS Nontargeted metabolomics analysis detected 3321 compounds, 1263 of which were annotated and included nutrients and bioactive compounds. Ionomics analysis detected and quantified 26 minerals including macrominerals, trace minerals, ultratrace minerals, and other metals. Principal component analysis indicated that microgreens have distinct metabolite and mineral profiles compared with one another and with their mature counterparts. Several compounds were higher (P < 0.05; fold change ≥2) in microgreens compared with their mature counterparts, whereas some were not different or lower. In many cases, compounds that were higher in microgreens compared with the mature counterpart were also unique to that microgreen species. CONCLUSIONS These data provide evidence for the nutritional quality of microgreens, and can inform future research and development aimed at characterizing and optimizing microgreen nutritional quality and health impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Johnson
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Jessica E Prenni
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
- Analytical Resources Core: Bioanalysis and Omics, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Adam L Heuberger
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
- Department of Soil and Crop Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Hanan Isweiri
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education, University of Benghazi, Benghazi, Libya
| | - Jacqueline M Chaparro
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
- Analytical Resources Core: Bioanalysis and Omics, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Steven E Newman
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Mark E Uchanski
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Heather M Omerigic
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Kiri A Michell
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Marisa Bunning
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Michelle T Foster
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Henry J Thompson
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Tiffany L Weir
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
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18
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Abstract
Microgreens are gaining increasing recognition among consumers, acclaimed for their freshness and health promoting properties associated with densely fortified secondary metabolites. These immature greens enhance human diet and enrich it with sharp colors and flavors. While numerous species are being tested for agronomic and nutritional suitability, consumer acceptance of appearance, texture, and flavor is critical for the microgreens’ marketplace success. This study investigates whether sensory attributes and visual appearance affect consumer preference for microgreens and their willingness to consume them. By means of a consumer test, the sensory attributes of 12 microgreens species were evaluated, wherein a partial least squares structural equation model was developed to link sensorial attributes to willingness to eat the product. The results showed that although visual appearance of the microgreens was largely appreciated, consumer acceptance overall was mainly determined by flavor and texture. In particular, the lower the astringency, sourness, and bitterness, the higher the consumer acceptability of microgreens. Among the 12 examined species, mibuna and cress scored the lowest acceptance by consumers, while Swiss chard and coriander were the most appreciated, being therefore good candidates to be introduced in Western country markets. In addition, both Swiss chard and coriander have been identified by previous literature as good dietary source of phenolic antioxidants.
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