Ísponica’s main product are microgreens, which are young, edible plants harvested at an early stage of growth, just after the first leaves have developed. They are usually harvested when they are about 1–3 inches tall, which is between 7–21 days after germination. Microgreens can come from many kinds of plants. Some of the most popular microgreens include broccoli, kale, arugula, radish, and cilantro.

Microgreens are sometimes confused with sprouts. The main difference between microgreens and sprouts is how they are grown and harvested. Sprouts are germinated seeds grown in water or a moist environment and harvested before they develop leaves, while microgreens are grown in soil or a growing medium, and harvested after they develop their first true leaves, offering more developed flavor and nutrition. Microgreens are typically larger than sprouts and take longer to grow.

Why are microgreens healthy?

1. Nutrient Density: Microgreens are packed with nutrients, often containing higher concentrations of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than their mature counterparts. For instance, studies show that microgreens can have up to 40 times more nutrients than fully grown plants. This includes vitamins C, E, K, and beta-carotene.
2. High in Fiber: While they are small, they still provide fiber, which is essential for digestion and maintaining a healthy gut.
3. Good Source of Plant Compounds: Microgreens are rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and other plant-based compounds that have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
4. Low in Calories: Despite their nutrient richness, microgreens are very low in calories, making them an excellent addition to any diet.

Microgreens can be added to all kinds of dishes, including salads, smoothies and juices, sandwiches and wraps, soups, pizza toppings, tacos, meat dishes and more. Microgreens offer a range of flavours depending on the type, from mild and sweet to peppery and spicy. Varieties like radish and mustard have a sharp, tangy bite, while others like basil or cilantro microgreens are more mild and fragrant. At Ísponica, we are growing several varieties of microgreens, such as radish, mustard, pea, kale, spicy salad and amaranth.