Effect of flashing amber light on the nutritional quality of green sprouts
¹Lithuanian Institute of Horticulture, 30 Kaunas str., LT–54333, Babtai, Kaunas distr.,Lithuania. Tel. +370–37–555476, fax: +370–37–555176; e-mail: a.urbonaviciute@lsdi.lt
²Institute of Materials Science and Applied Research, Vilnius University,Saulėtekio al. 9–III, LT–10222 Vilnius, Lithuania
³Lithuanian University of Agriculture, Studentų g. 11, LT–53361 Akademija,Kaunas distr., Lithuania
Abstract:
We report on the application of flashing amber (596 nm) light-emitting diodes (LEDs), supplemental to high pressure sodium lamps, for the cultivation of green sprouts, such as wheatgrass, barley grass, and leafy radish. The flashing light was found to significantly affect metabolism, thus conditioning the nutritional quality of the sprouts. In particular, it causes stressful conditions for the plants and within a short growth period can promote the synthesis of antioxidative compounds, such as vitamin C, phenolic compounds and carotenoids. However, the flashing amber light effect is dependent on the plant species.
Key words:
antioxidant activity, barley grass, carotenoids, leafy radish, Light-emitting diodes, saccharides, vitamin C, wheatgrass