North Bengal University wants to make a macro impact with microgreens, a global superfood.

The Centre of Floriculture and Agri-Business Management (Cofam) of NBU has taken up an initiative to promote sustainable agriculture and healthy eating habits by producing microgreens.

With its advanced laboratory infrastructure and expertise in organic farming, Cofam has started a project to grow high-quality microgreens that will be available in the market at subsidised rates.

Amarendra Kumar Pandey, the practical demonstrator of Cofam, said the initiative aims to cater to the rising demand for nutrient-rich, sustainable food options while fostering local agri-business and empowering aspiring entrepreneurs.

“Through this project, we have plans to produce microgreen and provide affordable access to these superfoods for consumers,” Pandey said.

Microgreens are young and tender greens harvested in just seven to 10 days after germination.

“Despite their small size, the microgreens are rich in nutrients, often containing up to 40 times more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants than their fully grown counterparts,” Pandey added.

He said that microgreens, which are known for their concentrated nutritional content, are becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious individuals and culinary enthusiasts.

“They are beneficial in improving immunity, digestion and heart health, while also serving as a great source of protein in a compact form. We have varieties of microgreens which include pak choi, beetroot, broccoli, mizuma, wheatgrass, peas, radish and sunflower. All of these can be easily grown with minimal resources,” said Pandey.

An expert in Cofam said the cultivation process for microgreens is relatively simple but requires careful handling to ensure optimal growth.

Seeds are planted in trays filled with coco peat and grown under controlled conditions, which include specific humidity, temperature and lighting.

Within seven to 10 days, the green shoots are ready to be harvested. These greens are then chopped, packed and prepared for sale.

“The growing demand for microgreens in both the health and hospitality sectors is a testament to their versatility and nutritional value. Thirty grams of these microgreens punnets cost around ₹100,” said a source.

Cofam, however, plans to offer the same quantity for ₹75 to ₹80.

“We want to promote healthier eating habits and create awareness about the nutritional benefits of microgreens. We want to reach out to individual consumers as well as to the thriving hotel and hospitality industry in and around Siliguri,” said the expert.

In addition to production, Cofam also intends to encourage people who want to launch startups in the agri-business sector.

The centre, sources said, is planning to launch a 15-day training programme for individuals interested in starting their microgreen ventures.

For this initiative, the centre is exploring funding opportunities through institutions like the Agri-Food Business Incubation Centre (AFBIC) at IIT-Kharagpur.

“Such collaborations could provide the necessary financial support to scale up the programme and expand its outreach,” pointed out Nupur Das, the registrar
of NBU.

She said that the microgreen initiative has the potential to change the agri-business landscape of Siliguri and surrounding areas.

“The project can also help in creating employment opportunities in this region. We are extending all necessary help to the centre,” said Das.