Microgreens in controlled environment agriculture: a comprehensive review of nutritional optimization, agronomic innovations, and postharvest sustainability.

Young edible seedlings of herbs and vegetables, commonly referred to as microgreens, have become nutrient-dense crops, ideally adapted to controlled environment agriculture (CEA). Their short growth cycle, minimal input requirements, and compatibility with both soil and soilless systems make them ideal candidates for weather-resilient and urban crop productions. Unlike previous reviews focusing either on nutrient composition or cultivation practices, the present review uniquely brings together nutritional optimization, agronomical innovations, and postharvest sustainability within CEA framework. The objective is to critically assess the interrelation among environmental management, growth strategies, and nutritional modulation to shape microgreen yield, quality, and resilience. Species from the key families such as Brassicaceae, Amaranthaceae, and Apiaceae have 2-3 times higher levels of vitamins (A, C, E, K) and phenolic-based antioxidant compounds compared to their mature counterparts. Innovations in management of the light spectra, nutrient solution formulation, and substrates have offered precise control over biomass and phytochemical composition. Nevertheless, gaps still exist in genotype-based nutritional response, microbial safety, shelf-life extension, and sustainability. The inclusion of AI-based environment control, biofortification, and environment-friendly packaging will provide nutritional consistency and reduced postharvest losses. By correlating the agronomical management with the nutritional sciences, the present synthesis highlights the potential of microgreens as functional foods to provide sustainable diets alongside global food security.