Have you ever heard of USDA microgreens? Microgreens, also known as “black dirt greens,” are an incredibly easy and versatile way to add color to your vegetables. This is a popular method for planting vegetables and fruits, especially in the South. What is USDA microgreens?
Microgreens are small, dark-green leaves that grow on young plants. These plants typically come from the forest floor or the undergrowth, which is what they were originally meant to do. These vegetables are low-maintenance and can be eaten both fresh and dried, but unlike other vegetables, they are not at all bitter. In fact, if you cook them right, you can eat them raw and without a fuss.
When planting USDA microgreens, you must make sure that they are planted in thickets of grass or dense bushes. They like these darker places because the intense light doesn’t reach their roots. If you don’t, the roots will eventually go dormant and then die. It is important to use a thicket of these vegetables for optimal results.
But why are these vegetables so great? In the South where they grow, many people believe that eating microgreens is better for your health than eating regular greens. USDA guidelines state that microgreens contain a lot more vitamin C than other vegetables. This means that eating these types of plants is a way to get more vitamin C into your diet, and that is always a good thing!
In addition to getting more vitamin C, eating microgreens is known to lower your risk of developing cancer. This is because the chlorogenic acid that gives these plants their color is associated with lower levels of the cancer-causing chemical phytochemicals. By eating the microgreens that are grown in the USDA’s field trial program, farmers are able to keep more of this phytochemical out of the environment. And that means healthier people.
Another advantage to consuming USDA microgreens is that they are easier on your stomach. Unlike other vegetables, you won’t feel any “stickiness” like you would from consuming a green vegetable that is higher in fat. Instead of having to control your bowel movements to get rid of the excess, you just eat the microgreens. You can also enjoy them without feeling as though you are cheating. If you eat them on an empty stomach, you won’t feel any different than you would if you had one larger meal containing a large amount of food.
Finally, the nutrient-dense, pesticide-free vegetables that USDA microgreens are produced to make them a great choice for consumers who are watching what they eat. Many people in the US are concerned about genetically modified (GM) foods. This concern has led to an increase in interest in organic foods and organic vegetables. And by eating USDA certified vegetables and avoiding those that are not organic, you are taking a step toward making sure that you are eating GM – and pesticide – free food.
Eating vegetables grown with USDA certification makes it easier for you to stay fit and healthy. But eating foods from GM – or genetically modified – origin countries is still important, especially when it comes to vitamin levels. Americans consume a lot of food from other countries that is not certified as GM – and if that food is not certified, it’s okay. But if you want to remain as healthy as possible, avoid foods that are not certified as GM – especially if they are organic.
There are so many benefits to eating USDA microgreens. One of them is that they are so easy to cook with. For example, you can use a whole range of fresh vegetables in your favorite recipes. You don’t have to select just one type of vegetable – choose a variety. That way, you can be able to provide your family with a wide variety of healthy choices. They will enjoy eating them as much as you do!
The next time you cook vegetables, consider adding them to your current recipe. Use carrots, spinach, beets, or red and green lettuce. Some great side dishes include pasta (pinwheels, zucchini, or spaghetti), rice, potatoes, squash, red meat, and chicken. Other great side dishes include eggs, ham, or cheese. It is easy to cook USDA certified vegetables in a variety of great recipes. All it takes is a little creativity and your family will love eating them!
When you buy USDA certified vegetables from a local supermarket, check for a symbol on the package. If there is one, that means that the product meets very high quality standards. You should also check the nutrition facts panel on any USDA Certified product to ensure that it is full of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. Eating USDA certified microgreens is a great way to get daily doses of vitamins and minerals that your body needs! Your family will love eating them!