Production of selenium‐biofortified microgreens from selenium‐enriched seeds of basil

BACKGROUND: Microgreens (i.e. tender immature greens) are a popular alternative to sprouts (i.e. germinating seeds) because of their higher content of vitamins, carotenoids and phenols, as well as their lower content of nitrates. Their nutritional value can be improved by biofortification, which increases micronutrient levels during plant growth. Because selenium (Se) plays a significant role in antioxidant defense, biofortificationwith Se is a goodway of improving the nutritional quality of sprouts and microgreens. The present study investigated the production of Se-fortified microgreens from Se-enriched seeds of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.). Thesemicrogreens could be used as new beneficial dietary supplements. RESULTS: Basil plants were grown in a nutrient solution, containing 0 (control), 4 or 8mg Se L−1 as sodium selenate, to full maturity. Seeds accumulated a high amount of Se and were then used to produce microgreens. The germination index was higher in the seeds from Se-treated plants and the microgreens were enriched in Se. The antioxidant capacity of Se-fortified microgreens was higher compared to the control. CONCLUSION: The production of microgreens fromSe-enriched seeds could comprise a good system for obtainingmicrogreens with a high nutritional value. Basil plants treated with Se could be used to produce both Se-fortified leaves and microgreens.