Micro herbs also known as microgreens, are young vegetable and herb seedlings that are harvested just after the first true leaves have developed. These petite greens pack intense flavor and concentrated nutrients. If you want to add some zest and superfoods to your diet, micro herbs are a fantastic choice. But where can you find fresh, high-quality microgreens? This complete guide covers the best places to buy micro herbs.
Why Add Micro Herbs to Your Diet?
Before diving into the where, let’s look at the why What makes microgreens worth seeking out and adding to your meals?
-
Nutrient Density – Microgreens contain very high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients. For example, they may have upwards of 40 times more nutrients than the mature plant!
-
Bold Flavor – The flavors of micro herbs are often more pronounced than the adult version. A little goes a long way in adding big flavor.
-
Fun Textures – Microgreens offer a range of textures from delicate and soft to crisp and crunchy This makes them an interesting addition to dishes,
-
Visually Appealing – The bright, vivid colors of microgreens can instantly make any meal or plate more eye-catching.
-
Versatile – Micro greens can be smoothly blended into drinks, used as sandwiches and wraps fillers, mixed into salads, placed on top of pizzas, added to soups and so much more.
-
Easy to Grow – If you want the absolute freshest microgreens, they are quite easy to grow right at home.
So in a nutshell, microgreens punch up the nutritional content, flavors, textures and aesthetics of food. That makes them well worth seeking out from quality sources.
Where to Buy Microgreens
Now onto the main event – where to buy micro herbs! Here are some of the top options:
Online Stores
Ordering microgreens online provides convenience and opens up more variety beyond just what is locally available. Reputable online sellers include:
-
True Leaf Market – This seed company offers both individual microgreen varieties and signature blends available for quick shipping. They use organic, non-GMO seeds and sustainable growing practices.
-
LA Herb – A herb and spice specialist, LA Herb has a section dedicated to microgreen seeds, growing kits and supplies.
-
Amazon – Both fresh microgreen kits and seeds can be found on Amazon from sellers like Fresh Origins. Prime shipping is available.
When buying online, read reviews and information about the company’s growing methods. Quick shipping and proper handling are important when getting fresh microgreens by mail.
Local Farmer’s Markets
Farmer’s markets are a fantastic place to find microgreens grown locally and sold at their peak freshness. Chat with farmers about their growing practices and variety recommendations. Ask when items were harvested.
Natural Food Stores
Many natural grocers like Whole Foods sell pre-packaged microgreen products, typically in the refrigerated produce section. While the selection is smaller than online, you can inspect, smell and hand-select items.
Restaurants
Some restaurants source microgreens from local farms to use in dishes. You may be able to purchase directly from the restaurant’s supplier for the freshest greens.
Grow Your Own
Finally, growing microgreens at home is very doable for any gardener. All you need is a shallow container, soil, seeds and light. Homegrown microgreens mean you control freshness and can customize varieties. It’s enjoyable!
How to Select High-Quality Microgreens
Once you find a source, use these tips for picking the best microgreens:
-
Seek out vibrant colors without yellowing or browning. Avoid slimy or wilted greens.
-
Look for firm stems and perky, unwilted leaves.
-
Choose microgreens with very small, young leaves which are more tender and flavorful.
-
Give greens a sniff to detect “off” odors that can signal spoilage.
-
For pre-packaged, check date and use within 5-7 days.
-
If buying in bulk, ask about harvest date and use within a few days.
Following proper storage and handling, microgreens retain maximum freshness and quality. With the right source and selection, micro herbs make an amazing nutritional and flavor boost to meals. Whether growing your own or buying from a farm, these petite greens are well worth seeking out.
Microgreens Near MeBuy your favorite Microgreens online with Instacart. Order Microgreens from local and national retailers near you and enjoy on-demand, contactless delivery or pickup within 2 hours.
- Turning on notifications for the Instacart app
- Keeping an eye out for text messages and phone calls from your Instacart shopper
- Leaving helpful instructions for parking, gate codes, or other clues to find your home.
- Delivery fees start at $3.99 for same-day orders over $35. Fees vary for one-hour deliveries, club store deliveries, and deliveries under $35.
- Service fees vary and are subject to change based on factors like location and the number and types of items in your cart. Orders containing alcohol have a separate service fee.
- Tipping is optional but encouraged for delivery orders. It’s a great way to show your shopper appreciation and recognition for excellent service. 100% of your tip goes directly to the shopper who delivers your order.
With an optional Instacart+ membership, you can get $0 delivery fees* on every order over $35. *Service fees apply. Instacart pickup cost:
- There may be a “pickup fee” (equivalent to a delivery fee for pickup orders) on your pick up order that is typically $1.99 for non-Instacart+ members. Instacart+ membership waives this like it would a delivery fee.
- Pick up orders have no service fees, regardless of non-Instacart+ or Instacart+ membership.
- Find Best Match: By default, your shopper will use their best judgement to pick a replacement for your item.
- Pick Specific Replacement: You can pick a specific alternative for the shopper to purchase if your first choice is out-of-stock.
- Dont Replace: For items you’d rather not replace, choose “Dont replace” to get a refund if the item is out of stock.
- Missing items
- Incorrect items
- Damaged items
- Poor replacements
- Early/late orders
If an order never came, or you get someone else’s order, you can reach out to Instacart Customer Experience. Yes! You can get Microgreens products delivered same-day in as fast as one hour from stores near you using the Instacart app or website.
Starting a Microgreens Business? Products I use and Tips!
FAQ
What is the difference between microgreens and micro herbs?
Microgreens include a range of young vegetables and herbs, while microherbs are exclusively young herbs. Microgreens mature in 1-3 weeks using soil or hydroponic methods; microherbs mature in 2-4 weeks and need specific light and temperature.
Does Home Depot sell microgreens?
Pennington Organic Micro-Greens Mild Mix Vegetable Seeds 8215 – The Home Depot.
Are microgreens worth buying?
Microgreens are packed with essential nutrients, including minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a super healthy choice compared to fully grown plants. They are also eco-friendly, as they use space efficiently and embrace sustainable growing methods.
Is it okay to eat microgreens every day?
Researchers say buckwheat microgreens are good to eat, but don’t consume more than 40 grams daily.