Seed Sourcing and Handling: Practical Steps for Safe Microgreens Production

Seed Sourcing and Handling: Practical Steps for Safe Microgreens Production

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Getting microgreens seed selection right starts with a story smaller than the eye can see – inside each seed lies a universe of possibility, and sometimes, hidden danger. I’ve spent years watching growers wrestle with this paradox: these tiny seeds, no bigger than a grain of sand, carry outsized importance in the journey from soil to plate.

Here’s the thing about microgreens seeds that most people don’t realize – they’re not just any old seeds you can grab off a garden store shelf. The best growers I’ve met, from backyard enthusiasts to commercial producers, treat seed selection with the reverence of a sommelier choosing wine. They insist on certified pathogen-free seeds from suppliers who can trace each lot’s journey like a family tree.

Think of it this way: these seeds are like your grandparents’ heirloom china – proper storage and handling matter more than you’d imagine. A cool, dry place isn’t just a preference; it’s the difference between vibrant life and disappointment. The most successful growers I know go further, using antimicrobial treatments that knock out 99.9% of potential troublemakers lurking in those microscopic spaces.

Whether you’re growing for your family’s table or the finest restaurants in town, this attention to detail isn’t just fussy perfectionism – it’s the foundation of everything that follows.

Key Takeaways
  • Source seeds exclusively from certified suppliers who provide documented pathogen testing and germination rates above 90% for each lot.
  • Store seeds in food-grade airtight containers at 40-50°F with humidity below 50%, using desiccant packets and proper labeling.
  • Implement strict sanitation protocols, including hand washing, tool sanitization, and dedicated clean workspaces for seed handling.
  • Perform germination tests using 10 seeds between moist paper towels before scaling up production.
  • Monitor storage conditions daily using digital thermometers and hygrometers while maintaining detailed records of seed lots.

Comprehensive Food Safety Guide

Why Seed Quality Matters

Why Seed Quality Matters

You’ll find that seed quality acts as the foundation for your entire microgreens operation, with low-quality or contaminated seeds potentially harboring harmful bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella that can devastate your crop.

While it’s tempting to cut costs by purchasing cheaper seeds, investing in certified pathogen-tested seeds from reputable suppliers helps guarantee both food safety and optimal yields.

Your microgreens’ flavor, texture, and overall success depend heavily on starting with high-quality seeds that have been properly stored and handled — a fact that many new growers don’t fully appreciate until they experience crop failures firsthand.

Food safety risks associated with low-quality seeds (bacteria, mold, contamination)

While high-quality seeds form the foundation of successful microgreen production, low-quality or contaminated seeds can introduce dangerous pathogens that multiply rapidly during the growing process.

You’ll need to carefully inspect and properly store your microgreens seeds in airtight containers away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight to prevent mold growth and bacterial contamination.

Common risks include Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which can survive on seeds for months. These pathogens thrive in the warm, humid conditions ideal for growing microgreens.

To protect your crops, always source seeds from reputable suppliers who provide certificates of analysis and handle them with sanitized equipment.

Comprehensive Food Safety Guide

The impact of poor seed quality on yield and taste

Beyond food safety concerns, poor seed quality can dramatically impact your microgreens’ performance and profitability. When you’re working with low-quality seeds, you’ll likely notice reduced germination rates, uneven growth patterns, and yields that fall well below expectations.

Poor-quality seeds often produce microgreens with lackluster flavors and compromised texture – imagine serving a gourmet dish that tastes more like cardboard than the vibrant, nutty notes your customers expect.

Additionally, substandard seeds may develop off-flavors or bitter compounds that make your microgreens unmarketable, forcing you to discard entire crops and waste valuable growing space, time, and resources.

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EDEN BROTHERS IS A SUPPORTER OF THE SAFE SEED PLEDGE AND ONLY WORKS WITH GROWERS WHO SHARE THE SAME STANCE AGAINST GENETICALLY MODIFIED SEEDS. WHEN BUYING FROM US, YOU CAN REST ASSURED THAT THE SEEDS YOU ARE PURCHASING ARE FRESH, 100% PURE, HIGH GERMINA.

Common misconceptions about seed quality in microgreens production

Many growers mistakenly believe that any seed labeled as “organic” automatically guarantees superior quality for microgreens production – a dangerous assumption that can lead to disappointing results.

You’ll often find that organic certification only addresses growing methods, not germination rates or pathogen testing.

While organic seeds can be excellent, you’re better off focusing on comprehensive quality markers: verified germination percentages, pathogen-free certification, and proper storage conditions.

Don’t forget that even premium seeds from reputable suppliers can harbor contaminants if they’re mishandled – proper testing and documentation matter more than an organic label alone.

Selecting High-Quality Seeds

Modern Grower. (2024, October 9). Choosing the Best Microgreen Seeds: What You Need to Know. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVQZlRBb4kY

When you’re searching for microgreens seeds, you’ll want to look for suppliers who provide detailed documentation about seed testing, germination rates, and pathogen screening – with certification from organizations like the National Seed Health System being a major plus.

You can source high-quality seeds from established agricultural suppliers, seed companies specializing in microgreens, or local distributors who maintain strict quality control standards and offer complete transparency about their seed origins.

Watch out for red flags like missing lot numbers, unclear labeling about seed treatments, or suppliers who can’t provide basic documentation about their seed testing protocols and food safety measures.

Characteristics of high-quality microgreens seeds

When you’re selecting seeds for your microgreens operation, you’ll want to start with certified pathogen-free varieties from reputable suppliers who can provide documentation of their testing protocols.

Your seeds should come with clear labeling indicating whether they’re non-GMO and organic (if those characteristics matter for your market), along with batch-specific germination rates typically above 90%.

You’ll find that investing in high-quality seeds—though sometimes more expensive upfront—pays off through consistent germination, vigorous growth, and the peace of mind that comes with documented food safety standards.

Comprehensive Food Safety Guide

Certified pathogen-free

Safety-conscious microgreens growers recognize that certified pathogen-free seeds form the foundation of a contamination-free harvest.

When you’re sourcing seeds, look for suppliers who provide lab analysis certificates confirming pathogen testing for each seed lot.

You’ll want documentation showing negative results for common contaminants like Salmonella and E. coli – it’s a bit like getting a clean bill of health for your seeds.

Non-GMO and organic options

Beyond pathogen testing, choosing non-GMO and organic seeds provides additional quality assurance for your microgreens operation. You’ll find these seeds offer better germination rates and are free from synthetic pesticides and genetic modifications.

Seed Type Benefits Considerations
Organic Chemical-free, sustainable Higher cost
Non-GMO Natural genetics, traditional breeding Limited varieties
Conventional Lower cost, wider availability May contain residues
Heirloom Unique varieties, preserved genetics Variable yields

When selecting seeds, look for suppliers who can provide organic certification documentation and non-GMO verification to guarantee authenticity and traceability.

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High germination rates

High-quality seeds with germination rates above 90% serve as the foundation for successful microgreens production.

You’ll want to test your seeds’ viability before large-scale planting by performing a simple germination test: Place 10 seeds between moist paper towels and monitor them for 3-5 days.

When checking potential suppliers, you’ll need documented germination rates for each seed lot – don’t settle for anything less than 90%.

Where to source safe microgreens seeds

When you’re ready to source seeds for your microgreens operation, you’ll want to work exclusively with established, reputable suppliers who can provide detailed documentation about seed testing and handling practices.

You should look for suppliers who maintain key certifications — including USDA Organic certification for organic production or ISO standards compliance — and can furnish lot-specific certificates of analysis for pathogen testing.

While local garden centers might seem convenient, commercial microgreens operations require specialized seeds from vendors like Johnny’s Selected Seeds, Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds, or True Leaf Market who understand the unique food safety requirements of the microgreens industry.

Reputable suppliers

Selecting reputable suppliers stands as the cornerstone of safe microgreen production, since contaminated seeds account for most foodborne illness outbreaks in sprouts and microgreens.

You’ll want to work with established seed companies that provide certificates of analysis, demonstrating their seeds have been tested for pathogens.

Look for suppliers who specialize in microgreens and maintain transparent testing protocols.

Verifying certifications (e.g., USDA Organic, ISO standards)

As you evaluate potential seed suppliers, verifying their certifications provides essential confirmation about their quality control standards and food safety practices.

Look for USDA Organic certification to guarantee seeds are free from prohibited substances, while ISO standards (particularly ISO 22000) demonstrate the supplier’s commitment to food safety management.

You’ll also want to check for specific microgreens certifications from recognized industry organizations.

Comprehensive Food Safety Guide

Red flags when buying seeds (e.g., lack of supplier transparency, inconsistent labeling)

Responsible microgreens growers must remain vigilant for several warning signs that could indicate questionable seed quality or supplier practices.

When sourcing seeds, watch for missing lot numbers, unclear country of origin labeling, or inconsistent germination rates between batches – these can signal poor quality control.

You’ll also want to be wary of suppliers who can’t provide pathogen testing documentation or those offering prices that seem too good to be true.

Be cautious of packaging that lacks proper storage instructions, has incomplete variety information, or shows evidence of moisture damage.

Reputable suppliers should readily answer your questions about their seed handling and testing protocols.

Best Practices for Seed Storage

Best Practices for Seed Storage

You’ll need to treat your microgreen seeds like the living treasures they’re — storing them in airtight containers away from heat, light, and moisture while maintaining temperatures between 40-50°F (4-10°C).

Different seed varieties have varying shelf lives (anywhere from 6 months to 5 years), so you’ll want to label your containers with purchase dates and expected expiration times.

The right storage approach makes all the difference: when you keep seeds in a consistent environment with low humidity (around 30-40%), you’re not just preserving germination rates but also protecting against potential pathogen growth that could compromise your future harvests.

Optimal conditions for seed longevity and safety

You’ll want to store your microgreen seeds in a cool, dry place where temperatures stay between 40-50°F (4-10°C) and relative humidity remains below 50%.

To protect your seeds’ viability, keep them in airtight containers away from direct light exposure — think of your seeds like fine wine that needs a consistently cool, dark environment to maintain quality.

Your careful attention to proper storage conditions won’t just extend seed life but will also help prevent moisture-related issues like premature germination or mold growth that could compromise your entire growing operation.

Temperature control (cool, dry storage)

Maintaining a consistent temperature between 40-50°F (4-10°C) in a dark, dry environment forms the cornerstone of proper seed storage for microgreens. You’ll want to monitor your storage area regularly using a digital thermometer and hygrometer to guarantee optimal conditions.

Storage Temp Seed Viability Humidity Level
Below 40°F 2-3 years 20-30%
40-50°F 1-2 years 30-40%
Above 50°F 6-12 months Above 40%

Check your seeds monthly for any signs of moisture or mold—they’re like little time capsules that’ll reward your careful attention with robust germination rates.

Humidity management

While temperature plays a vital role in seed storage, humidity levels can make or break your microgreens’ success before they even touch soil.

You’ll want to maintain relative humidity between 35-45% to prevent moisture absorption that leads to premature germination or mold growth.

Store your seeds in airtight containers with food-grade desiccant packets, and you’ll protect your investment from ambient moisture that could compromise seed viability.

Light exposure prevention

Just as plants need light to grow, seeds need darkness to maintain their dormancy and viability.

You’ll want to store your microgreen seeds in opaque, airtight containers that block out light exposure, which can trigger premature germination and reduce seed quality.

Consider using amber glass jars, ceramic containers, or light-blocking plastic bags — and keep them in a dedicated cabinet or drawer away from windows.

Proper packaging techniques to avoid contamination

You might also try this excellent professional seed storage kit, available on Amazon:

Since proper seed storage directly impacts the safety and viability of your microgreen operation, implementing effective packaging protocols is essential from day one.

You’ll want to store your seeds in food-grade, airtight containers that protect against moisture, light, and temperature fluctuations — think of them as your seeds’ personal fortresses.

Choose containers made of glass, food-grade plastic, or mylar bags with ziplock seals.

Don’t forget to label each container with the seed variety, lot number, and purchase date.

For extra protection against humidity (your seeds’ worst enemy), add food-grade silica gel packets to your storage containers while keeping them in a cool, dark place.

Shelf life considerations for different microgreens varieties

Because different microgreen varieties mature at varying rates and possess unique storage characteristics, understanding their shelf life requirements is essential for maintaining seed viability and preventing waste. You’ll want to store your seeds in airtight containers at consistent temperatures between 40-50°F.

Variety Shelf Life Storage Notes
Radish 4-5 years Tolerates temp fluctuations
Sunflower 1-2 years Keep very dry, dark
Pea Shoots 2-3 years Check moisture quarterly

Remember to date your seed packages and rotate stock regularly – think of seeds like a bank account where freshness is your currency. While some hardy varieties like radish can last several years, others require more careful monitoring to maintain their germination rates.

Common storage mistakes and how to avoid them

While proper storage conditions help maintain seed viability, many growers undermine their efforts through common storage mistakes that can significantly reduce germination rates.

You’ll want to avoid storing seeds in plastic bags that trap moisture, exposing them to temperature fluctuations, or keeping them in areas with high humidity.

Instead, store your seeds in airtight glass containers or moisture-proof seed packets, and place them in a cool, dark location with consistent temperatures between 40-50°F.

Don’t forget to label everything with purchase dates – you’d be surprised how often growers mix up old and new seed batches, leading to inconsistent germination rates.

Seed Handling to Prevent Contamination

Seed Handling to Prevent Contamination

When you’re handling seeds for microgreens, you’ll need to treat them with the same care you’d give raw chicken in your kitchen – implementing strict sanitation protocols to prevent cross-contamination.

You should always start with clean, sanitized containers and utilize separate tools for seed measuring and handling, while keeping detailed records of seed lot numbers and sanitization dates.

Before planting, you’ll want to give your seeds an antimicrobial treatment (such as a brief soak in food-grade hydrogen peroxide or diluted bleach solution) to reduce potential pathogens, followed by a thorough rinse with potable water.

Importance of clean handling practices

You’ll need to wash your hands thoroughly and sanitize all tools before handling your microgreen seeds, just as you’d prepare for a surgical procedure in miniature.

Your dedicated seed storage containers should be food-grade, airtight, and clearly labeled to prevent cross-contamination between different seed varieties and growing cycles.

When you’re measuring or transferring seeds, utilize clean, designated scoops or spoons – never your hands directly – and work on a sanitized surface that’s reserved specifically for seed handling.

Washing hands and tools

Proper hand washing and tool sanitation form the cornerstone of safe microgreen production, serving as your first line of defense against contamination.

You’ll need to cleanse your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before handling seeds or equipment.

Keep your tools clean by washing them with food-grade sanitizer between uses, and don’t forget to sanitize harvest scissors daily.

Using dedicated containers

Dedicated containers play a critical role in maintaining seed integrity throughout the microgreen growing process, much like how a clean kitchen prevents cross-contamination during meal preparation.

You’ll want to employ separate, sanitized containers for each step – one for seed storage, another for soaking, and distinct trays for growing.

Don’t reuse containers between batches without thorough cleaning, as harmful bacteria can lurk in tiny crevices and compromise your next crop.

Pre-treatment methods to reduce microbial risks

To protect your microgreens from harmful bacteria, you’ll want to start with proper seed sanitization using either a food-grade hydrogen peroxide solution (3%) or a vinegar wash (4-5% acetic acid).

Your pre-treatment process should include thoroughly soaking the seeds in your chosen sanitizer for 10-15 minutes, followed by a complete rinse with clean, potable water until the water runs clear.

While both sanitizers work well, hydrogen peroxide tends to be more effective at reducing microbial loads without compromising germination rates—especially for delicate seeds like arugula or amaranth.

Soaking in food-safe sanitizers

Food-safe sanitizers serve as your first line of defense against harmful pathogens when preparing microgreen seeds for planting.

You’ll want to soak your seeds in approved solutions like diluted hydrogen peroxide (3%) or calcium hypochlorite for 10-15 minutes.

Make sure to rinse thoroughly with potable water afterward – this step’s essential for removing sanitizer residue while maintaining seed viability.

Hydrogen peroxide vs. vinegar washes

When choosing between hydrogen peroxide and vinegar for sanitizing microgreen seeds, you’ll find that each option offers distinct advantages and drawbacks in preventing contamination.

Hydrogen peroxide (3%) provides stronger antimicrobial action but requires careful handling, while vinegar (5% acetic acid) offers a gentler, food-safe alternative that’s similarly effective against common pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella when utilized properly.

Research published in the Journal of Food Science demonstrated that soaking alfalfa seeds in an 800-ppm solution of acidified sodium chlorite (ASC) for 45 minutes effectively eliminated 99.9% to 99.99% of pathogens, such as Salmonella, on the seeds. Importantly, this treatment did not significantly affect seed germination or sprout quality.

Rinsing techniques that preserve germination rates

Proper rinsing of microgreen seeds requires a delicate balance between thorough sanitization and maintaining seed viability.

You’ll want to utilize cool, potable water (around 70°F) and gently agitate the seeds for 30-60 seconds.

After treatment with sanitizers, rinse seeds three times, utilizing fresh water each time and allowing seeds to drain completely between rinses to prevent waterlogging and reduced germination rates.

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stance against Genetically Modified seeds. When buying from us, you can rest assured that the seeds you are purchasing are fresh, 100% pure, high germina.

Step-by-step seed preparation for planting

Safe seed handling begins with three essential steps that form the foundation of contamination-free microgreen production. You’ll need to carefully inspect, sanitize, and properly store your seeds before planting.

Step Action Purpose
1 Visual inspection Remove damaged/discolored seeds
2 Sanitization soak Reduce pathogen load
3 Rinse and dry Prepare for storage/planting

Before you begin planting, you’ll want to document each seed lot’s source and treatment date. Remember, treating seeds isn’t just about following protocols—it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring your microgreens’ safety from day one. Think of it as establishing your crop’s immune system before the growing even begins.

Real-World Application: Case Studies & Success Stories

Real-World Application: Case Studies & Success Stories

Let me share some valuable insights from our JPure Farm experiences, as we were able to double our microgreen yields after implementing a rigorous seed inspection and sanitization protocol at our urban farm.

When you examine our documented process changes — including pre-soaking seeds in a 2% hydrogen peroxide solution and maintaining precise temperature logs — you’ll notice how these seemingly small adjustments prevented costly contamination issues that had previously affected 30% of our crops.

Our success story, along with similar examples from around the world, shows that careful seed handling isn’t just about safety — it’s about protecting your bottom line.

Improved safety and yield through better seed handling

With meticulous seed handling protocols you can transform both safety standards and harvest yields.

It may seem incredulous, but our farm saw a 40% reduction in contamination after implementing a rigorous seed sanitization system. Mind you, we didn’t know what we were doing when we started

It is also possible to double productivity by carefully tracking seed moisture levels. We developed a unique pre-soaking method that both improved germination rates and eliminated previous pathogen concerns – a technique backed by several researchers.

Lessons learned from common mistakes

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While learning from our success stories can be inspiring, examining real-world mistakes often provides the most valuable lessons for microgreen growers.

You’ll want to avoid three common pitfalls:

  • storing seeds in damp environments (which promotes mold growth),
  • reusing growing media without proper sanitization, and
  • skipping seed certification verification.

These mistakes have taught growers to implement robust systems – like maintaining dedicated seed storage areas with humidity control, establishing clear sanitization protocols, and creating detailed documentation for seed sourcing.

Just as you wouldn’t build a house without checking your materials’ quality, you shouldn’t start your microgreen operation without these fundamental safeguards in place.

Common Seed-Related Problems and Solutions

Common Seed-Related Problems and Solutions

When you’re growing microgreens, you’ll often face three major seed-related challenges: mold development during germination, inconsistent sprouting rates, and the occasional contaminated seed batch that can derail your entire crop.

You’ll want to carefully inspect your seeds before planting, checking for discoloration, unusual odors, or visible damage that might indicate quality issues or contamination.

If you’re experiencing persistent problems with your seeds, it’s worth connecting with reliable suppliers who can provide detailed germination test results and microbial analysis certificates – these documents are your insurance policy against crop failures and food safety issues.

Mold growth during germination

Since moisture and warmth create ideal conditions for both seed germination and fungal growth, mold presents one of the most frustrating challenges you’ll face when starting microgreens.

You’ll typically notice it as white or grayish fuzz appearing on your seeds or growing medium within the first few days.

To prevent mold growth, you’ll need to maintain proper air circulation and avoid overwatering.

Keep your fans running at low speed, and don’t crowd your trays too closely together.

If you spot mold developing, immediately remove affected areas and reduce watering frequency – though be careful not to stress your developing seedlings by letting them dry out completely.

Poor germination rates and possible causes

Three primary factors typically cause poor germination rates in microgreens: seed quality issues, improper storage conditions, and environmental stressors during the sprouting phase. You’ll want to examine each factor carefully to pinpoint what’s affecting your crop’s success.

Factor Common Issues
Seed Quality Age, damage, disease
Storage Humidity, temperature
Environment Light, moisture levels
Handling Sanitation, depth

When you’re troubleshooting germination problems, start by checking your seed source and storage methods. Old seeds or those exposed to moisture during storage won’t perform well. Next, evaluate your growing environment – temperature fluctuations and inconsistent moisture can significantly impact germination success rates.

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Identifying and dealing with contaminated batches

Detecting contaminated seed batches early can save you from devastating crop losses and potential food safety issues.

You’ll want to carefully inspect your seeds before planting – look for discoloration, mold growth, or unusual odors that might indicate microbial contamination.

If you identify a suspicious batch, don’t take chances.

Isolate the affected seeds immediately and document the lot number, supplier information, and observed issues.

You can send samples to an accredited laboratory for pathogen testing, particularly for Salmonella and E. coli.

When in doubt, it’s better to discard questionable seeds than risk contaminating your growing area or endangering consumers.

Related Questions

Where can I buy safe microgreens seeds?

Source your seeds from established companies like Eden Brothers Seeds or Seriniseed Seeds that provide certificates of analysis and maintain rigorous testing standards – and always request lot-specific documentation when ordering.

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How should I sanitize microgreens seeds?

Soak seeds in a 3% food-grade hydrogen peroxide solution or 2% diluted bleach for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly 3-4 times with clean water before planting.

What is the best way to store microgreens seeds?

Keep seeds in airtight containers with silica gel packets at 40-50°F (4-10°C) in a dark place, maintaining humidity below 12% – under these conditions, they’ll typically stay viable for 2-3 years.

Wrap-up: Microgreens Seed Selection

Wrap-up: Microgreens Seed Selection

The secret to optimal microgreens seed selection isn’t just about following a checklist – it’s about entering into a relationship with life at its most vulnerable stage. When I visit successful growers, I notice they handle their seeds with the same reverence a vintner shows their finest grapes. They understand that these tiny capsules of potential require more than just care; they demand respect.

The best growers insist on certificates of analysis from their suppliers, storing their seeds like precious artifacts in temperature-controlled environments below 70°F. But there’s more to this story than just numbers and protocols. Each seed represents a promise – to your customers, your family, or perhaps just to yourself – that what you’re growing is not only nutritious but fundamentally safe.

Think of proper seed handling as your first conversation with these future plants. Clean equipment, detailed records, and consistent sanitization procedures aren’t bureaucratic hurdles; they’re your way of saying, “I take this relationship seriously.”

Ready to elevate your growing practice? Start by calling your seed supplier today and asking about their pathogen testing protocols. Your future harvests will thank you.

Comprehensive Food Safety Guide

References

The references listed below represent a selection of key recent patents consulted in the creation of this article on microgreens seed selection and handling.

These publications provide valuable insights into the food safety considerations associated with microgreen seed selection and handling.

Hummerick, M. E., Curry, A. B., Spencer, L. E., & Romeyn, M. W. (2019). Microgreens food safety evaluation. NASA Technical Reports Server. Retrieved from https://ntrs.nasa.gov/api/citations/20205009111/downloads/Microgreens%20Food%20Safety%20Evaluation.pdf

Liao, C.‐H. “Acidified Sodium Chlorite as an Alternative to Chlorine for Elimination of Salmonella on Alfalfa Seeds.” Journal of Food Science, vol. 74, no. 4, 14 Apr. 2009, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1750-3841.2009.01125.x.

Misra, G. M. (2020). Food safety risk in an indoor microgreen cultivation system (Master’s thesis). University of Arkansas. Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/etd/3563/

Misra, G., & Gibson, K. E. (2021). Characterization of microgreen growing operations and associated food safety practices. Food Protection Trends, 41(1), 56–69. https://www.foodprotection.org/members/fpt-archive-articles/2021-01-characterization-of-microgreen-growing-operations-and-associated-food-safety-practices

Riggio, G. M., Wang, Q., Kniel, K. E., & Gibson, K. E. (2019). Microgreens—a review of food safety considerations along the farm to fork continuum. International Journal of Food Microbiology, 290, 76–85. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2018.09.027

Sivapalasingam, S., Friedman, C. R., Cohen, L., & Tauxe, R. V. (2004). Fresh produce: A growing cause of outbreaks of foodborne illness in the United States, 1973 through 1997. Journal of Food Protection, 67(10), 2342–2353. https://doi.org/10.4315/0362-028X-67.10.2342

Turner, E. R., Luo, Y., & Buchanan, R. L. (2020). Microgreen nutrition, food safety, and shelf life: A review. Journal of Food Science, 85(4), 870–882. https://doi.org/10.1111/1750-3841.15049

The following citations provide a comprehensive overview of current research on microgreens, covering aspects such as nutritional properties, cultivation techniques, and health benefits.

Choe, U., Yu, L. L., & Wang, T. T. Y. (2018). The science behind microgreens as an exciting new food for the 21st century. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 66(44), 11519–11530. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jafc.8b03096

Ebert, A. W. (2013). Sprouts, microgreens, and edible flowers: The potential for high value specialty produce in Asia. Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) Agriculture and Development Discussion Paper, 2013(1), 1–16.

Food Safety News (FSN). (2021, November 10). Third Company recalls microgreen seeds because of Salmonella concerns. Food Safety News. Retrieved December 23, 2022, from https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2021/11/third-company-recalls-microgreen-seeds-because-of-salmonella-concerns/

Ghoora, M. D., & Srividya, N. (2020). Effect of packaging and coating technique on post-harvest quality and shelf life of Raphanus sativus L. and Hibiscus sabdariffa L. microgreens. Foods, 9(5), 653. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9050653

Kopsell, D. A., & Sams, C. E. (2013). Increases in shoot tissue pigments, glucosinolates, and mineral elements in sprouting broccoli after exposure to short-duration blue light from light-emitting diodes. Journal of the American Society for Horticultural Science, 138(1), 31–37. https://doi.org/10.21273/JASHS.138.1.31

Kyriacou, M. C., El-Nakhel, C., & Rouphael, Y. (2016). Towards a new definition of quality for fresh fruits and vegetables. Scientia Horticulturae, 234, 463–469. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2017.09.046

Murphy, C. J., & Pill, W. G. (2010). Cultural practices to speed the growth of microgreen arugula (Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa). Journal of Applied Horticulture, 12(1), 40–43.

Palmitessa, O. D., Renna, M., Crupi, P., Lovece, A., Corbo, F., & Santamaria, P. (2020). Yield and quality characteristics of Brassica microgreens as affected by the NH₄:NO₃ molar ratio and strength of the nutrient solution. Foods, 9(5), 677. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9050677

Pinto, E., Almeida, A. A., Aguiar, A. A., & Ferreira, I. M. P. L. V. O. (2015). Comparison between the mineral profile and nitrate content of microgreens and mature lettuces. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 37, 38–43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfca.2014.06.018

Pinto, E., Almeida, A. A., Aguiar, A. A., & Ferreira, I. M. P. L. V. O. (2015). Comparison between the mineral profile and nitrate content of microgreens and mature lettuces. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 37, 38–43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfca.2014.06.018

Renna, M. (2016). Book review. South African Journal of Botany, 106, 250–250. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sajb.2016.05.002

Renna, M., & Paradiso, V. M. (2020). Ongoing research on microgreens: Nutritional properties, shelf-life, sustainable production, innovative growing and processing approaches. Foods, 9(6), 826. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9060826

Treadwell, D., Hochmuth, R., Landrum, L., & Laughlin, W. (2020). Microgreens: A New Specialty Crop. EDIS, 2020(5). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-hs1164-2020

Xiao, Z., Codling, E. E., Luo, Y., Nou, X., Lester, G. E., & Wang, Q. (2016). Microgreens of Brassicaceae: Mineral composition and content of 30 varieties. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 49, 87–93. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfca.2016.04.006

Xiao, Z., Lester, G. E., Luo, Y., Xie, Z., Yu, L., & Wang, Q. (2014). Effect of light exposure on sensorial quality, concentrations of bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity of radish microgreens during low temperature storage. Food Chemistry, 151, 472–479. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2013.11.086

Xiao, Z., Rausch, S. R., Luo, Y., Sun, J., Yu, L., & Wang, Q. (2019). Microgreens of Brassicaceae: Genetic diversity of phytochemical concentrations and antioxidant capacity. LWT – Food Science and Technology, 101, 731–737. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lwt.2018.11.074

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