Today, when everyone is more conscious of and keen on a healthy lifestyle and the prevention of illness, microgreens and sprouts are highly sought-after items. In addition to the numerous health benefits, they are quickly and efficiently manufactured and utilized in a variety of ways.
Microgreens are often mistaken for sprouts. In fact, they are different. Compared to sprouts, they offer more nutritional value and contain more antioxidants. They are a good supply of vitamin A and B, C (ascorbic acid) as well as E and iron. But, they require more time to grow and are harder to harvest. Sprouts are a great source of protein and offer the same benefits as those found in microgreens.
What are Sprouts?
Sprouts seeds grow and develop into young plants. Sprouts are rich sources of nutrients and are low in calories. They grow in a hydroponic system, i.e., using only water. They grow quickly and are harvested in just two to six days. They are the principal ingredient of raw diets and are highly praised for their nutritional benefit.
What are Microgreens?
Microgreens are baby plants. They are highly rich in nutrients. Microgreens gained popularity through cooking shows and gourmet restaurants. They provide a unique twist to your food by adding flavor and color. Today they are so popular that they are available on the shelves of all grocery shops or on the windowsills of homes. The most widely grown microgreens are beets, broccoli, beets, etc. Most vegetables and herbs can be easily grown as microgreens.
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Sprouts vs. Microgreens
Microgreens, as well as sprouts, can be harvested at the beginning of development, just only a few days after the seeds have sprouted. This is why they are usually categorized as one. However, they are not identical.
Sprouts vs. Microgreens – The Similarities
- They both grow using the same seeds
- The seeds require water to break the dormancy.
- The pre-soaking of the seeds is possible before planting.
- Both can be grown in your home.
- Both are highly nutrient-rich.
Sprouts vs. Microgreens – The Differences
Sprouts | Microgreens | |
Growing Medium | Grown in water (hydroponically) | Can be grown in soil or in a hydroponic medium. |
Harvest | In 3 to 5 days | In 7 to 14 days |
Plant Length | 2-3 inches | 4-7 inches. |
Appearance | Don’t form the real leaves, but only the seeds leaves | Form true leaves |
Nutrition | Comparatively Less | More than just sprouts |
Consumption | Whole sprouts are consumed – such as seeds, root stem and seed leaves | The seeds and roots are not consumed. |
Ventilation | No requirement of ventilation | Require good ventilation |
Light Requirements | No requirement of light | Need light to grow |
Fiber content | Comparatively less | More than just sprouts |
Recipe | Ideal for a crunch or stir-fry | Excellent for salads, soups as a garnish and sandwiches. |
Plants varieties | Limited choices available | More than 80 types of plants |
Cost | Comparatively cheaper | Expensive than sprouts |
We hope this article has helped clarify some confusion and misconception about microgreens and sprouts.
Microgreen Growing Kits -For Microgreen Lovers
If you are also interested in growing nutritious microgreens near your window, on the terrace, or on the kitchen countertop with just some room lighting, we recommend the GUTBasket Microgreens Grow Kit.
This innovative grow kit uses soil less technology to grow microgreens. It comes with the 3 tray system, pre-cut grow mat, and seeds to grow Microgreens in less than 10 days—a perfect gift for your family and loved ones.
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