Open Access: View PDF

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ijfnd.2322.0775.9221.1

Abstract

Various studies have been done on the nutritional aspects of microgreens that is trending now days as fresh green salad in urban population. We have worked on the idea to make these microgreens more popular among soldiers posted at high altitude as self growing potential fresh food supplement. In this study we have explored. The nutrition capabilities of fast and easily growing microgreens of five crops at high altitude i.e. Fenugreek, cabbage, garden orche (atriplex), buckwheat, broccoli and their microgreens were selected for the comparative nutrient analysis with their mature part. Nutrient analysis results have shown that protein content and dietary fibre is significantly higher in mature part of these five crops except cabbage (high in cabbage microgreens). Mature cabbage, broccoli and fenugreek possessed significantly higher minerals contents except, Mg, total P, Na, Zn and Fe (significantly higher in fenugreek microgreens). The mean K content (4481.3±1.86 mg/kg) in mature broccoli was highest. The vitamin C and vitamin B3 are found higher in all the three microgreens than counterpart while beta carotene is found higher in cabbage and broccoli microgreens but comparatively less in fenugreek. Vitamin B9 was found significantly higher in cabbage microgreen, almost equal amount in microgreen broccoli and in mature fenugreek. In harsh climatic condition where fresh food availability throughout the year is a major challenge. Microgreens rich with mineral and vitamins can be good option as dietary supplement to the troops and for local residents especially when mature fresh vegetables are not available. Keywords: Microgreens; High altitude; Vitamins; Counterpart; Harsh climate.

Corresponding Author : Narendra Singh, Scientist, ‘F’ Vegetable Science Division, Defence Institute of High Altitude Research, Defence Research & Development Organization, Leh-Ladakh 194101.