Novel indoor technology for urban food production and enhancement of human nutrition

Recent studies showed a rising pattern of malnutrition due to reductions in density of essential nutrients in plant-based foods. This was associated with global climate change and elevated level of atmospheric carbon dioxide (currently, >450 ppm). This phenomenon is a grave public health concern, which needs urgent research attention. The goal of this research is to develop an efficient and automated Modgarden TinyFarm with modular planters to allow households to have smart microfarms for the production of nutrient-rich and healthy organic vegetables and herbs; and to contribute to understanding of plant biofortification mechanisms using an innovative technology. We previously showed that vermicast can enhance plant nutrient acquisition and tissue nutrient density. We will therefore investigate properties exhibited by vermicast-sawdust mixed medium in addition to optimum LED light intensity for the Tinyfarm to achieve higher plant productivity and phytochemical composition of human benefits. The short-term objectives are to: (1) investigate nutrient mineralization dynamics, nutrient-release pattern, and active microbial community structure; (2) evaluate plant morpho-physiological response; (3) assess the nutritional and functional indices of target plants; and (4) use in vitro assays to determine bioactivity, bioavailability and bioaccessibility of nutritional and functional ingredients in plants grown in different proportions of vermicast-sawdust mixed medium and LED light intensity. The research will actively engage researchers, students and industry. The novelty of the research is pioneering the use of smart indoor microfarm to promote human nutrition and health. This research is mutually beneficial to Modgarden, Dalhousie and Memorial Universities and Canada. Modgarden will exploit the results to improve the efficiency and productivity of the Tinyfarm and its commercialization while Canadians will have the opportunity to grow and eat healthy vegetables and herbs in the comfort of their homes with significant environment, socioeconomic and health benefits.