Microgreens vs. Mature Greens: Nutrient Comparison – Why Size Doesn’t Matter
- Alexander Burgess
- Sep 3
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
When most people think about leafy greens, their mind goes straight to a big bunch of kale, spinach, or lettuce. But lately, those tiny, vibrant sprouts popping up on plates—known as microgreens—have been stealing the spotlight. At Peak Farms Colorado, we grow these little powerhouses right here in Gypsum, and one of the most common questions we hear is: Are microgreens really healthier than mature greens? The answer is a resounding yes—and the reason comes down to how nutrients are concentrated in those small but mighty leaves.
Microgreens are essentially the “teenagers” of the plant world. They’re harvested just a couple of weeks after germination, long before they grow into full-sized vegetables. Despite their tiny size, they’re loaded with flavor and an impressive nutritional profile. This early stage of growth is when plants are working the hardest, storing nutrients to fuel their rapid development. By the time they grow into mature greens, those nutrients are distributed across a much larger plant, which means the concentration per bite isn’t as strong.
Science backs this up. A USDA study found that microgreens can contain up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature counterparts, particularly when it comes to vitamins like C and E, as well as beta-carotene [study link]. Another study on broccoli microgreens found that they are especially high in sulforaphane, a plant compound with promising health benefits [study link]. In plain terms, eating a small handful of microgreens can sometimes be like eating a big bowl of fully grown greens—but with a lot more flavor.
And that’s another point worth noting: the taste of microgreens is far more concentrated than mature greens. Radish microgreens have a zesty, peppery bite, while sunflower microgreens bring a nutty, crunchy texture to dishes. Broccoli microgreens are mild and fresh but still pack in a nutritional boost. This makes them one of the easiest foods to add to your daily meals—toss them on sandwiches, sprinkle them over tacos, blend them into smoothies, or even use them as a garnish on pizza. You get the benefits of both taste and nutrition in one small addition.
At Peak Farms Colorado, we take pride in growing nutrient-rich, pesticide-free microgreens that are harvested at their peak freshness. Our customers especially love broccoli microgreens for their versatility, radish microgreens for their bold flavor, and
for their hearty crunch and plant-based protein. Whether you’re topping off breakfast, lunch, or dinner, microgreens are an easy upgrade that turns an ordinary dish into something vibrant, delicious, and nutrient-dense.
So, when it comes to nutrition, bigger doesn’t always mean better. Microgreens may be small in size, but they are mighty in impact. Adding them to your plate is one of the simplest, most flavorful ways to support your health—without needing to eat a mountain of salad. If you’re ready to experience the difference for yourself, check out our fresh microgreens and see just how much power is packed into every bite.
Comments