Edible POMEGRANATE SPROUTS developed at ARO using a proprietary growing and harvesting technology, possess exceptionally high antioxidant activity and contain a unique natural complex of hydrophilic and lipophilic phytonutrients generally found in specific parts of pomegranate plant. The platform exploits pomegranate processing waste as a source of seeds for germination and yields sprouts that can be consumed fresh, or processed into functional food products with an antioxidant capacity similar to that of dark chocolate. Both the fresh and processed products have a pleasant taste, attractive appearance and good storage potential (up to 2 months as a fresh product and up to 12 months as a processed one). The processed pomegranate sprouts may be suitable for preparing high-energy snacks rich in natural antioxidants, vitamins, protein and iron, for applications relating to lipid metabolism regulation and body weight control, and for cosmetics and beauty products. The technology is protected by patents in the USA, EU, Japan and Israel. Collaborations in investigating the biomedical and nutritional effects of these sprouts and in their commercialization are welcome.
Edible POMEGRANATE SPROUTS developed at ARO using a proprietary growing and harvesting technology, possess exceptionally high antioxidant activity and contain a unique natural complex of hydrophilic and lipophilic phytonutrients generally found in specific parts of pomegranate plant. The platform exploits pomegranate processing waste as a source of seeds for germination and yields sprouts that can be consumed fresh, or processed into functional food products with an antioxidant capacity similar to that of dark chocolate. Both the fresh and processed products have a pleasant taste, attractive appearance and good storage potential (up to 2 months as a fresh product and up to 12 months as a processed one). The processed pomegranate sprouts may be suitable for preparing high-energy snacks rich in natural antioxidants, vitamins, protein and iron, for applications relating to lipid metabolism regulation and body weight control, and for cosmetics and beauty products. The technology is protected by patents in the USA, EU, Japan and Israel. Collaborations in investigating the biomedical and nutritional effects of these sprouts and in their commercialization are welcome.