Controlled light intensity efficiently enhances micronutrient content and composition in chia sprouts.

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Physiology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Micronutrient deficiencies are a global health concern.
• Biofortification through controlled environments offers a promising solution.
• Chia (Salvia hispanica) is a nutrient-dense seed crop with potential for sprout biofortification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of light intensity and photoperiod on micronutrient accumulation in chia sprouts.
• To determine optimal light conditions for enhancing pro-vitamin A and mineral content.
• To assess the potential of light-based biofortification as a cost-effective strategy.

Main Methods:

• Chia sprouts were initially grown in darkness for 3 days.
• Subsequently, sprouts were exposed to varying light intensities (50, 100, 150 μmol/m²/s) and photoperiods (12h light/12h dark, constant light) for 48 hours.
• Natural light and continuous darkness served as control conditions.

Main Results:

• Medium-intensity constant light (100 μmol/m²/s) significantly enhanced overall micronutrient content.
• Pro-vitamin A increased 4.5-fold (from 13.5 to 61.4 μg/g FW) compared to natural light.
• Significant increases were observed in copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, sulfur, and zinc (1.3- to 1.5-fold).

Conclusions:

• Light intensity and photoperiod critically influence micronutrient profiles in chia sprouts.
• Optimized light conditions, specifically medium-intensity constant light, provide an effective method for biofortifying chia sprouts.
• This approach offers a cost-effective strategy to enhance nutritional value and potentially meet vitamin A requirements.