Microgreens Vs Sprouts: The Difference

This post is all about microgreens and sprouts.

Let's talk about the tiny and mighty microgreens and sprouts!

These little greens may be small in size, but they pack a powerful punch of nutrition and flavor.

The major difference between microgreens and sprouts is the length of time it takes to harvest them.

Both microgreens and sprouts are grown from the same plant, but microgreens are harvested 5-14 days from seed, while sprouts are harvested within just 7 days from seed.

That's right, you can have fresh, crunchy sprouts on your sandwich or salad in just one week!

Microgreens are a bit more mature than sprouts and are harvested after the first set of true leaves have developed.

They come in a variety of flavors, from spicy arugula to sweet pea shoots, and can add a gourmet touch to any dish.

So, whether you're a sprout lover or a microgreen enthusiast, both of these greens are easy and fun to grow indoors all year round.

Plus, you can enjoy the satisfaction of growing your own nutritious and delicious food right at home!

Microgreens Vs Sprouts

Microgreens

Microgreens are the ultimate green superheroes that can pack a powerful nutritional punch in a small package.

They're a perfect choice for those who want to eat healthy, but have limited space and time.

These tiny greens are easy to grow and require minimal care, making them an ideal choice for novice gardeners.

Compared to sprouts and baby greens, microgreens are relatively new to the health food scene, but they have quickly gained popularity.

Microgreens are harvested later than sprouts, but earlier than baby greens. They're typically harvested when the first true leaves appear and are about an inch or two tall.

One of the best things about microgreens is that they're incredibly versatile.

You can grow them in trays, pots, or even recycled containers. They're perfect for growing indoors, making them a great option for those living in small apartments or urban areas.

The health benefits of microgreens are impressive, as they contain high levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They're particularly rich in vitamins C, E, and K, which support healthy immune function, skin health, and blood clotting.

Microgreens are considered a superfood, and the ease of growing them makes them a popular choice among many people with little or no growing experience. They can pretty much be eaten on or with just about anything.

Although, they do go really well in salads, soups, and sandwiches. You can even juice them and add them to wheatgrass shots or even smoothies.

Microgreens also can not regrow after harvesting, except wheatgrass microgreens. Which technically is a type of grass, and can be harvested 3 or 4 times.

I highly recommend you grow your own microgreens to get the most out of your money if you plan on eating microgreens.

There are plenty of microgreen kits out there to help you get started, but overall microgreens are simply younger versions of baby greens and are older than sprouts.

Sprouts

Sprouts are the perfect addition to any salad, sandwich, or wrap. They add a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor. Plus, they are incredibly nutritious!

Not only are sprouts low in calories and high in fiber, but they are also packed with vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, folate, and potassium. In fact, some studies have shown that sprouts contain up to 30 times more nutrients than mature plants!

Growing sprouts at home is also super easy and requires minimal equipment.

All you need is a mason jar or a growing tray, some seeds, and water. Simply soak the seeds, rinse them a few times a day, and watch them grow!

One thing to keep in mind when growing sprouts is food safety. Since they are grown in water, there is a risk of bacterial contamination if the seeds or equipment are not properly sanitized. It's important to use high-quality seeds and clean equipment to avoid any potential health risks.

Overall, sprouts are a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet. Whether you grow them at home or buy them from the store, they are a great way to add some extra vitamins and minerals to your meals.

The Difference Between Them

Sprouts and microgreens are two popular types of young plants that are packed with nutrition and flavor. Although they share some similarities, they are quite different in terms of their characteristics and how they are grown.

Sprouts are like the wild child of the plant world, growing rapidly and with abandon. They are the youngest and fastest growing of the three types we're talking about here. In fact, they are usually ready to harvest within a week or less, making them the perfect choice for those who want fresh greens in a hurry.

One of the main differences between sprouts and microgreens is that sprouts are not grown in soil. Instead, they are usually grown in a simple mason jar or growing tray and soaked in water during the germination process. This method of growing makes them an easy and accessible choice for those who are new to growing their own greens.

Another difference between sprouts and microgreens is that sprouts are eaten whole, including the stems and roots, whereas with microgreens and baby greens, you only eat the leaves and stems. This means that sprouts have a slightly different texture and taste compared to microgreens.

Which is better microgreens or sprouts?

Whether microgreens or sprouts are better depends on individual preferences and needs. Here are some factors to consider:

Nutritional value: Both microgreens and sprouts are packed with nutrients and antioxidants, but the exact nutritional profile can vary depending on the plant. Generally, microgreens contain more vitamins and minerals than sprouts because they are allowed to grow beyond the germination stage.

Taste and texture: Microgreens tend to have a more complex and varied flavor profile compared to sprouts, which can have a mild, nutty taste. Microgreens also offer a range of textures, from delicate and tender to crunchy.

Growing method: Microgreens are grown in soil or another growing medium, while sprouts are typically grown hydroponically or in a jar with a damp cloth. Sprouts are faster to grow and require less space than microgreens, making them a good option for small kitchens or beginners.

Safety concerns: There have been cases of foodborne illnesses associated with sprouts due to their moist growing environment, so it's important to take proper precautions when growing and consuming sprouts. Microgreens are generally considered safer to consume.

Are microgreens safer to eat than sprouts?

In general, microgreens are considered safer to eat than sprouts. This is because sprouts are grown in a warm and humid environment, which can be a breeding ground for bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. Sprouts are also typically eaten raw, which means any harmful bacteria present in the sprouts may not be eliminated by cooking.

Microgreens, on the other hand, are grown in soil or a soil substitute, which is less likely to harbor harmful bacteria. They are also typically harvested after the first set of true leaves have developed, which means they have a lower risk of contamination compared to sprouts.

That being said, it's still important to handle and store microgreens properly to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Always wash your hands before handling microgreens, and make sure to properly wash and store them before eating.

Can you grow microgreens as sprouts?

Yes, microgreens can technically be grown as sprouts. In fact, the sprouting process is the first stage of growing microgreens. To grow microgreens as sprouts, simply follow the same process as you would for sprouting seeds, which typically involves soaking the seeds in water for several hours or overnight, then rinsing and draining them several times a day until they sprout.

Once the seeds have sprouted, instead of transferring them to soil or a growing medium, you can harvest them as sprouts by cutting the stems just above the roots. However, keep in mind that microgreens are typically grown in soil or a growing medium to allow for continued growth and development of the plant, which results in more nutritious and flavorful greens. So while you can grow microgreens as sprouts, you may be missing out on some of their benefits.

Final Thoughts on Microgreens vs Sprouts

Despite these differences, sprouts and microgreens share many of the same benefits. They are both packed with nutrition, easy to grow at home, and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to sandwiches and beyond.

Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, sprouts and microgreens are a delicious and healthy addition to any diet.