QUEZON CITY, (PIA) – Microgreen farming is one of the agricultural practices gaining ground in the Philippines and is widely supported by the government thru the Department of Agriculture’s Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) program.
At the recently held World Food Expo (WOFEX) 2023, the miniature superfood like mustard, broccoli, daikon radish, dun peas, red acre cabbage, red garnet amaranth, and arugula stood out prominently at the Young Farmers Pavillion.
Microgreens are young plants that are harvested before they reach maturity. They are typically grown in trays or containers and can be cultivated indoors or outdoors, making them an excellent option for urban farming.
One of the main benefits of microgreens is their high nutrient density. Despite their small size, they pack a nutritional punch, often containing higher nutrient levels than more mature vegetable greens that makes them a good addition to any diet.
Due to their early harvest time, they contain more vitamins and minerals than mature plants. In fact, some studies have shown that microgreens can contain up to 40 times more nutrients than fully-grown vegetables!
These tiny greens, usually cultivated in trays or containers, are actually young plants that are harvested before they reach maturity, making them rich with more vitamins and minerals than fully-grown veggies.
They are also versatile and can be added to salads, smoothies, sandwiches, burgers, pizza, and soup, elevating dishes to unparalleled heights. These plants can also be grown both indoors and outdoors, making them a good choice for urban farming.
The status of microgreen farming in the Philippines is gaining momentum, as more farmers, especially the young ones are turning to this sustainable agriculture practice. In recent years, there has been an increase in demand for fresh and healthy produce, making microgreens a viable option for small-scale farmers.
With various programs such as financial grants, business development services, and credit access, among others, the DA has been fostering a supportive community that will help young farmers thrive and overcome challenges in the rapidly changing agricultural industry.
By investing in the next generation of farmers, the current administration ensures a vibrant and sustainable agricultural sector for all Filipinos. (DJC/PIA-NCR)
