MICROGREENS: NUTRITIONAL CONTENT, HEALTH EFFECT, PRODUCTION, AND FOOD SAFETY

Abstract

Demand for healthy and organic foods have been enourmously increasing. Microgreens are small-sized various vegetables, cereal and plant seeds harvested after the formation of the first true real leaves on germinated plants. Microgreens attract consumers attention with via their vibrant bright color, fragile structure and positive effects on health, especially with high amounts of bioactive components. Industrial and household production of microgreens have been increasing as a new gourmet culinary ingredient. The short shelf life and fast degradation of the microgreens requires the application of different procedures in the optimization of storage methods and conditions after the harvest. Food safety risks associated with the consumption of microgreens differ from mature vegetables due to growth conditions. In this review; The nutritional content, health benefits, growing conditions, storage methods, contamination risks and safety of microgreens, which are important for producers, consumers and researchers, have been comprehensively reviewed in the light of current research.