Lovely Professional University (LPU) is making strides in sustainable agriculture with its groundbreaking research on microgreens, positioning itself as a global leader in the field. The university's Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, part of the School of Agriculture, is driving innovation in microgreens cultivation and their integration into value-added food products. This transformative work is spearheaded by a dedicated team of experts, including Dr. Prasad Rasane (Head of Department and Project Supervisor), Dr. Sawinder Kaur (Associate Dean), Dr. Jyoti Singh (Associate Professor), and Ph.D. Research Scholar Mr. Mahendra Gunjal.

Microgreens, often referred to as the "superfoods of the future," are gaining increasing attention worldwide for their high nutrient content, rapid growth cycles, and sustainable farming methods. These tiny plants are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them an ideal alternative to traditional vegetables. Their ability to address food security concerns, along with their minimal environmental footprint, has placed them at the forefront of sustainable agriculture.

The LPU research team has made significant progress in exploring various aspects of microgreens, including cultivation techniques, nutritional benefits, and potential for commercialization. Their studies have attracted international recognition, with multiple high-impact publications and patents underscoring their advancements. The team has developed innovative methods for indoor cultivation that optimize growth and enhance antioxidant properties using different growing mediums, LED light spectra, and foliar spray treatments. These findings hold promise for the future of urban farming and sustainable agricultural practices worldwide.

In addition to research on cultivation, the LPU team has focused on the practical applications of microgreens. Their work includes the development of functional, ready-to-consume products such as dried powders, beverages, and smoothies, which incorporate microgreens, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products to boost nutritional value. These products cater to the growing consumer demand for plant-based, nutrient-dense options and highlight the importance of bioactive compounds in promoting health and wellness.

LPU's commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated by a portfolio of innovative patents aimed at improving microgreens production and expanding their practical use. Key inventions include a microgreens cultivation chamber designed for indoor farming, a plant-growing mat made from tea waste, and a microgreens-based instant tea mix offering high bioactive potential. The team has also developed specialized devices for cultivating microgreens, showcasing the real-world applicability of their research in everyday consumer products.

Beyond patents, the department’s research has been widely recognized in top-tier journals. Recent studies include a detailed analysis of alternative growing mediums for microgreens published in the South African Journal of Botany, as well as research on the nutritional properties of wheatgrass in Recent Advances in Food, Nutrition & Agriculture. Additionally, the team’s work on optimizing microgreen-based beverages, including a study on the process for creating a microgreen and fruit-based ready-to-serve drink, was featured in the International Journal of Food Studies and Anais Da Academia Brasileira De Ciências. These publications emphasize the potential of microgreens as versatile ingredients in health-conscious products.

LPU's ongoing research in areas such as consumer perceptions, market trends, and the bioactive properties of microgreens further solidifies the department's leadership in the field. Their work, published in Food Chemistry: X, Food Bioscience, and Scientific Reports, provides valuable insights into optimizing microgreen growth and utilizing them for value-added food products.

By enhancing the nutritional value of microgreens and exploring their industrial applications, LPU is making a lasting impact on both scientific research and consumer markets. The university’s work not only reflects its dedication to addressing global food security and sustainability challenges but also solidifies its position as a leader in microgreens research on the global stage.

Through cutting-edge research and practical applications, Lovely Professional University is paving the way for the future of sustainable agriculture. This pioneering initiative underscores LPU’s commitment to developing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the global community.

Source: Lovely Professional University