Microgreens for Kids: How to Introduce Healthy Microgreens into Children’s Diets

Microgreens are a fantastic way to boost the nutritional value of your child’s meals. These tiny, nutrient-packed greens are not only healthy but also fun and easy to grow. In this article, we’ll explore how to introduce microgreens into your children’s diets, share some delicious recipes using products from the MP SEEDS store, and discuss the mild flavor of microgreens that makes them perfect for kids.

 

Scroll down and find out:

1. The nutritional benefits of microgreens for children.

2. Fun and educational ways to introduce microgreens to kids.

3. Kid-friendly recipes using products from the MP SEEDS store.

4. The mild flavor of microgreens and why kids love them.

5. Safety considerations for feeding microgreens to children.

6. Which microgreens are best for kids?

 

Let’s get started!👇🏼

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1. Why Microgreens are Good for Kids?

Microgreens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They contain higher nutrient levels than their mature counterparts, making them a powerful addition to any diet. For children, this means better growth, improved immunity, and overall health. Studies have shown that microgreens can contain more nutrients than their mature counterparts, making them a superfood in a small package.

 

One of the best things about microgreens is their mild flavor, which makes them perfect for kids. Unlike some vegetables that can have strong or bitter tastes, microgreens are generally mild and slightly sweet. This makes them easy to incorporate into a variety of dishes without overpowering other flavors. Whether added to a smoothie, sprinkled on a pizza, or mixed into a salad, microgreens can enhance the nutritional value of meals without causing a fuss at the dinner table. Additionally, the mild flavor of microgreens can help children develop a taste for vegetables, making it easier to introduce other healthy foods into their diet.

 

Want to find out what nutritional properties microgreens contain? Check it out by reading the article "Health Benefits of Microgreens".

 

1.1. Why are Microgreens Safer than Sprouts?

Microgreens are generally considered safer than sprouts due to their growing conditions. Microgreens are grown in soil or a soil substitute under light, with good air circulation, which reduces the risk of bacterial growth. Sprouts, on the other hand, are grown in warm, humid conditions, with no soil, making them more susceptible to contamination. By ensuring proper hygiene and growing methods, microgreens can be a safer option for consumption, especially for children.

 

2. Are Microgreens Safe for Children?

Microgreens are generally safe for children and can be a nutritious addition to their diet. According to a study published by the University of Maryland, microgreens contain higher levels of vitamins and antioxidants compared to their mature counterparts. However, it's essential to ensure they are grown and harvested in a clean environment to avoid contamination. For very young children, particularly those under the age of five, introduce microgreens slowly to monitor for any potential allergic reactions. Always wash microgreens thoroughly before consumption to ensure safety.

 

Here’s how to check if microgreens can be safely given to a child:

 

• Clean Growing Environment: Ensure microgreens are grown in a clean environment to avoid contamination. Also remember to buy mirogreens seeds only from trusted suppliers.

• Proper Hygiene: Wash microgreens thoroughly before consumption to remove any dirt or potential pathogens.

• Allergy Check: Introduce microgreens slowly and monitor for any allergic reactions.

• Age Consideration: Avoid giving spicy varieties like radish microgreens to very young children; suitable for children aged 5 and older.

• Quality Seeds: If you are growing microgreens yourself, use high-quality seeds from reputable sources like MP SEEDS.

 

By taking these precautions, you can safely introduce the nutrient-rich benefits of microgreens into your children’s diet, helping them develop healthy eating habits from a young age.

 

Looking for the differences between microgreens and sprouts? Check out "The Epic Battle of Sprouts vs. Microgreens: A Hilarious Comparison."

3. Which Microgreens are Best for Kids?

When it comes to introducing microgreens to children, certain varieties are particularly kid-friendly due to their mild flavors and high nutritional content.

 

👉🏼 Sunflower Shoots: These are sweet and crunchy, packed with vitamins A, C, and E, as well as essential minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium. They are great for boosting the immune system and promoting healthy skin and vision.

 

👉🏼 Pea Shoots: Fresh and sweet, pea shoots are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and are a good source of protein and fiber. They support bone health and aid in digestion.

 

👉🏼 Radish Microgreens: With their slightly spicy flavor, radish microgreens are excellent for adding a kick to dishes. They are high in vitamins A, C, and K, and contain antioxidants that help in reducing inflammation and boosting heart health. Due to their spicy taste, they are mostly loved by older children over 6 years of age.

 

Want to know more about the health benefits of mirogreens? Check our article “What Are Health Benefits of Microgreens?”.

 

4. How to Introduce Microgreens to Kids?

Introducing microgreens to kids can be a fun and rewarding experience. Start by involving them in the growing process, which can spark their interest and curiosity. Use microgreens as toppings for their favorite dishes like pizza, sandwiches, or smoothies to make them more appealing. You can also create colorful salads or incorporate them into wraps and tacos. Highlight the mild flavor of microgreens, which is often more palatable for children. By making microgreens a regular part of meals in creative and tasty ways, you can help your kids develop a love for these nutritious greens.

 

4.1. Start Small

Begin by adding small amounts of microgreens to familiar dishes. Sprinkle them on top of pizzas, mix them into smoothies, or add them to sandwiches. This gradual introduction helps kids get used to the new flavors and textures. You can start with milder microgreens like sunflower or pea shoots, which have a subtle taste that blends well with many dishes.

 

4.2. Make Microgreens Fun

Involve your children in the growing process. Let them plant the seeds, water the plants, and watch them grow. This hands-on experience can make them more excited about eating the microgreens they’ve nurtured. You can even create a growth chart to track the progress of the microgreens, making it a fun and educational activity. Additionally, decorating the pots or containers can add a creative touch to the project.

 

Below you will find some ideas for fun while growing microgreens with your kids. 👇🏼

• Create a growth chart to track the progress of the microgreens.
• Decorate pots or containers for a creative touch.
• Measure the height of the plants daily to turn it into a mini science experiment.
• Keep a “microgreen journal” where kids can draw or write about changes they observe.
• Organize a mini “microgreen cooking show” where kids help prepare a dish with their home-grown microgreens.

 

These activities will make growing microgreens an engaging and educational adventure for your children! 

👉🏼 Please note that playing with microgreen seeds is not suitable for small children as they may pose a choking hazard. Ensure adult supervision during the growing process to keep it safe and enjoyable for everyone.

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5. Fun and Education With Microgreens for Kids

Growing microgreens for kids can be a fun and educational activity for kids. It teaches them about plant life cycles, responsibility, and the importance of healthy eating. Plus, kids are more likely to eat what they’ve grown themselves! Setting up a small indoor garden can be a great family project. You can use simple containers, cocomats, and seeds from the MP SEEDS store to get started. Watching the seeds sprout and grow can be a daily adventure for children, fostering a sense of accomplishment and curiosity about nature.

 

5.1. Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Pea Microgreens for Kids

Growing pea microgreens with kids can be a fun and educational experience that encourages healthy eating habits. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through the process of cultivating pea microgreens at home, providing a hands-on activity that will engage children and teach them the joys of gardening. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a complete novice, this guide will help you and your kids successfully grow and enjoy delicious pea microgreens. Let's get started on this green adventure!

 

🌱 Gather Supplies: Seeds from MP SEEDS, tray, soil/cocomats, spray bottle.

🌱 Soak the seeds: for 8 to (maximum) 12 hours.

🌱 Germination: Stack the trays, put them in blackout the and wait 3-4 days for germination period, uncover when sprouted.

🌱 Sowing seeds: Spill even on your growing medium and water them a little.

🌱 Daily Care: Spray from the bottom daily.  

🌱 Let Them Grow: Grow for 7-14 days in sunlight.

🌱 Harvest Time: Cut microgreens at soil level.

🌱 Enjoy and Repeat

6. Use Kid-Friendly Recipes with Micogreens

Incorporate microgreens into recipes that kids already love. Here are a few ideas using products from the MP SEEDS store:

 

6.1. How to make Microgreen Smoothie for Kids?

This smoothie is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The spinach microgreens add a boost of vitamins A, C, and K, while the banana and berries provide natural sweetness.

 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup spinach microgreens from MP SEEDS
• 1 banana
• 1 cup frozen berries
• 1 cup yogurt
• 1/2 cup orange juice

 

Instructions:

Combine all ingredients in a blender, blend until smooth and serve immediately.

 

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6.2. How to make Microgreen Pizza?

Adding microgreens to pizza is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients. The radish microgreens add a slight peppery flavor that complements the other toppings perfectly.

 

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pizza crust
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella chees
• 1/2 cup radish microgreens from MP SEEDS
• Your favorite pizza toppings

 

Instructions:

Preheat the oven according to the pizza crust instructions, spread tomato sauce over the crust, sprinkle mozzarella cheese and add your favorite toppings, bake as directed and top with radish microgreens before serving.

 

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6.3. How to make Microgreen Salad for Kids?

This colorful salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with vitamins and minerals. The sunflower microgreens add a nutty flavor that pairs well with the fresh vegetables.

 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sunflower microgreens from MP SEEDS
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup carrots, shredded
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

 

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the microgreens, tomatoes, cucumber, and carrots. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine and serve immediately.

 

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Remember that at MP SEEDS you can buy microgreens seeds and accessories for growing them at home. Call the children and start playing a healthy garden together.

 

7. The Mild Flavor of Microgreens

One of the best things about microgreens is their mild flavor, which makes them perfect for kids. Unlike some vegetables that can have strong or bitter tastes, microgreens are generally mild and slightly sweet. This makes them easy to incorporate into a variety of dishes without overpowering other flavors. Whether added to a smoothie, sprinkled on a pizza, or mixed into a salad, microgreens can enhance the nutritional value of meals without causing a fuss at the dinner table. Additionally, the mild flavor of microgreens can help children develop a taste for vegetables, making it easier to introduce other healthy foods into their diet.

 

8. Summary

Introducing microgreens into your child’s diet can be a fun and rewarding experience. With their mild flavor and numerous health benefits, microgreens are a great way to ensure your kids are getting the nutrients they need. Remember that the sooner you start adding microgreens to your children's daily meals, the sooner you will accustom them to healthy eating habits in the future. Try out these recipes and watch your children enjoy the goodness of microgreens!

 

👉🏼 Introducing microgreens into your child’s diet can be a fun and rewarding experience.

👉🏼 Microgreens have a mild flavor, making them perfect for kids.

👉🏼 They offer numerous health benefits, including higher nutrient levels.

👉🏼 Growing microgreens can be an educational activity for children.

👉🏼 Try out the provided recipes to incorporate microgreens into meals your kids will love.

 

Visit our MP SEEDS store to see our full range of products and start your journey towards healthier, tastier meals for your kids.