A team has developed an edible gel substrate for growing microgreens, aiming for sustainable and circular resource use.
The substrate, similar to agar-agar, contains water and nutrients needed for cultivation. Both the grown microgreens and the substrate can be consumed.
The gel consists of water, natural fibers (coconut, wood), natural stabilizers, seaweed gelatin, and biochar. It eliminates the need for additional water or fertilizers during cultivation, saving energy.
Two companies have shown interest in the edible gel substrate. The developers are working on improving the taste, as it currently tastes too much like charcoal.
The team also created small rocket ships for children to grow plants, teaching them about the challenges of sustainable agriculture. The goal is for children to understand the challenges and eat the plants and substrate.