01/06/2020
Microgreens versus Sprouts
One of the most common questions we get asked about is regarding the difference between microgreens and sprouts. Many people seem to believe that the two are the same thing, and contrary to this belief, they are completely different from one another. Their appearance, taste, and method of growing separate them from each other.
Sprouts are plants that have just germinated or awakened from seeds. This stage in a plant’s life usually occurs 3-5 days after sowing the seeds. People normally grow sprouts in a jar of water where the conditions are dark and very humid. When the sprouts are ready for harvest, they will contain underdeveloped leaves, the stem, and a single root. As for the taste, sprouts are generally less flavorful compared to microgreens, but they offer a crunchier texture.
On the other hand, microgreens refer to the plant stage after sprouts. Microgreens are grown for 1-3 weeks depending on variety. So, if you allow your sprouts to grow a little bit longer, they will turn into microgreens. Microgreens are commonly grown on soil or other soil-like mediums, and they require good air ventilation unlike sprouts. They are also commonly grown under a light source where their first pair of leaves (the cotyledons) will fully develop and turn green due to the chlorophyll content. Microgreens are harvested above the soil level which means their root structure is excluded from the end product. In general, microgreens have a stronger flavor compared to their younger and older selves. Nutritionally, microgreens contain more nutrients compared to sprouts. The longer grow time under light allows the crop to develop further and absorb more nutrients from the soil.
![Black Bean and Quinoa Salad [Vegan]White Quinoa, Black Beans, Romaine Lettuce, Cherry Tomatoes, Kale and Broccoli Microg...](https://img4.voofla.com/089/334/1725798130893349.jpg)
