Research: 1-ounce AeroFarms micro broccoli have higher nutrient density than 1-ounce florets

AeroFarms, an indoor vertical farming company and supplier of microgreens to the U.S. retail market, announced in October new third-party research that the company says validates the nutritional value of the company’s micro broccoli.

The study, which examined the nutritional composition of both AeroFarms micro broccoli and mature broccoli florets, found that AeroFarms micro broccoli offers up to 35 times more nutrient density per ounce than mature broccoli florets for specific vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients.

AeroFarms’ microgreens are ready-to-eat out of the package and do not require washing because they are sustainably grown indoors without the use of pesticides.

The study found that one ounce of AeroFarms micro broccoli delivers the same levels of vitamin A and sulforaphanes as nearly 36 ounces (three 12-ounce bags) of broccoli florets.

Compared to mature broccoli florets, AeroFarms micro broccoli contains higher levels per ounce of the following nutrients:

• 35 times more sulforaphanes and 2 times more flavonoids, phytonutrients that provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and cardiovascular-protective properties.
• 34 times more vitamin A, which supports vision, immune system, skin and cellular health.
• 6 times more calcium, essential for bone and tooth health and muscle and heart function.
• 4 times more vitamin K, supporting bone, heart and blood vessel health and blood sugar regulation.
• 4 times more magnesium, which supports hundreds of important bodily processes each day.
• 3 times more iron, which is essential for oxygen transport and hormone regulation.

“The data confirms why AeroFarms’ micro broccoli is an incredible superfood. Microgreens are not only delicious and versatile, but they are among the most nutrient-dense foods available,” said LeAnn James, vice president of food safety and quality assurance at AeroFarms. “At AeroFarms, we are proud to pioneer innovation in both food safety and nutrition, delivering fresh and flavorful microgreens that meet the highest standards of quality.”

AeroFarms grows their microgreens indoors using the company’s patented aeroponics vertical farming technology, 100% renewable energy, 90% less water and 230 times less land than traditional farming. No pesticides are used on the plants, which also eliminates the need to wash before eating.

AeroFarms microgreens are available in nearly 2,500 stores nationwide, including four new retail partners and 750 new stores added this year.

“Microgreens are driving growth in the packaged salads category with flavorful, nutrient-dense options for consumers,” James said. “AeroFarms is not only expanding consumer choice, but we are redefining how fresh greens can be grown and distributed to consumers throughout the United States.”

Micro broccoli is part of AeroFarms’ portfolio of seven microgreens, with a shelf life of 18 to 23 days.