Nutrient Density - What is it? and why is it important?

Nutrient density is a term that refers to the amount of nutrients found in a food item relative to its calorie content. In simple terms, the more nutrients a food contains per calorie, the more nutrient-dense it is. When it comes to produce, the nutrient density can vary based on factors such as the health of the soil in which the produce is grown, when and how the produce is harvested, and finally how the produce is processed and stored.

One key way to determine the nutrient density of produce is to compare the amount of essential nutrients it contains to its calorie content. For example, a nutrient-dense food would be one that provides a significant amount of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients without a high calorie content. 

Fruits and vegetables can be excellent examples of nutrient-dense produce. If grown under ideal conditions they can be rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber while being relatively low in calories. This makes them an ideal choice for those looking to improve their overall health and well-being. However with the advent of chemical inputs into our growing systems, such as synthetic fertilisers and pesticides, which have over time reduced our soil health and fertility leading to an ever declining nutrient denity of our fresh produce.

Research in the decline of nutrient density of produce has been a growing concern in the field of nutrition and agriculture. Studies have shown that the nutrient content of fruits and vegetables has been decreasing over the years due to various factors such as decline in soil health, modern farming practices, and the use of synthetic fertilizers.  One of the main reasons for the decline in nutrient density is the depletion of soil nutrients. Modern farming practices, such as monocropping, the heavy use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, the reduction or omission of organic inputs and the suppression and destruction of the soil biome, have led to a loss of essential minerals and nutrients in the soil. As a result, plants are not able to absorb and accumulate as many nutrients as they once did, leading to a decline in the nutrient content of produce. 

Yes, absolutely we can! Regen AgTek has been developing regenerative agricultural technologies and inputs to improve our soil health, increase carbon sequestration, and increase the nutrient density of our fresh produce!

MinRock mineralisation is improving soil health and its complex microbiome, increasing crop yields, increasing nutrient density of produce, enhancing plant immunity to pests and diseases, while negating the use of synthetic fertilisers and pesticides.

Have a look at the latest data we have on increasing the nutrient density of Broccoli by using MinRock Mineralised Compost.