Microgreens in Urban Agriculture: Bridging Nutrition, Sustainability and Innovation

Abstract

Microgreens are young plants harvested just after the cotyledons have developed-have become known for their nutrient density, with studies showing they can have higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals and bioactive compounds than their mature counterparts. They are consumed for their dense content of up to 40 times nutrients including vitamin C, vitamin E and antioxidants. They are rich sources of vitamin C and vitamin E, calcium, iron and antioxidants. They hold potential for addressing micronutrient deficiencies and contributing to public health due to their better anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory functions. Microgreens provide a variety of health benefits, such as protection from cardiovascular diseases, improved immune system function and a lower risk of chronic diseases. Research emphasizes the importance of microgreens for reducing LDL cholesterol levels, enhancing endothelial function and their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, thus positioning them as a beneficial natural tool for cardiovascular health support and optimizing immunity. Microgreens are grown with either soil, hydroponic or aeroponic systems. Microgreens, despite their advantages, are challenged with low shelf-life (5-10 days), substantial initial investment on controlled-environment systems and limited consumer awareness in non-urban areas. Urban agriculture incorporates microgreens to meet the growing food demand with a smaller carbon footprint, using less water and time. They grow quickly, making them well-suited to cities. However, the most challenged small-scale growers may benefit economically with high profitability given low startup costs, but high production costs impact economic viability and have limited expansion due to concise market. Microgreens have become increasingly popular in recent years owing to their high nutritional value, often offering a greater concentration of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants than their adult forms. As a result, there is growing interest and rising demand for microgreens in urban and health-focused markets. Cultivation methods, health benefits, and sustainable agriculture role are important to know & find a right market. This review paper discusses about nutritional, health, economical, environmental & cultivation & related aspects of microgreens.