Growing trends
Hyperlocal urban farmers at Fresh Forage foodsources
By Kelsey Schaefer
Microgreens are popping up onto the local food scene to show that size isn ’ t everything . Thanks to the dynamic duo at Fresh Forage , chefs and connoisseurs are experimenting with the diminutive plants , and their ultra ecological growing method , proving them to be much more than dainty garnishes .
When Joel Weber and Jeff Penniston joined forces to create their own local grow room , they weren ’ t aware of how much the business itself would flourish .
The microgreen industry is quite literally sprouting due to the tiny plants ’ copious benefits . Microgreens pack 40 % more nutrients than mature plants and the small but mighty superfoods also boast more intense flavours than their developed counterparts , making them ideal for chefs and home cooks alike .
“ A good chef will utilize microgreens for garnishes ,” said Weber . “ A great chef will use them to flavour .”
With a background in farming and an education in engineering , Weber wanted to pursue a career that could combine both . After
Jeff Penniston , Joel Weber and Leanne Kisil
chatting with Penniston , who had experience in aquaponics , the pair decided to pursue a business that Winnipeg wasn ’ t yet offering .
The miniature greens industry isn ’ t the only one that the duo is trailblazing . Fresh Forage happens to also be Winnipeg ’ s first urban vertical farming business , a practice that involves growing stacked layers of vegetation using aeroponic and hydroponic methods ; and one that ’ s expected to grow , pun intended , exceptionally over upcoming decades .
Fresh Forage aims to provide affordable quality produce year round . Indoor growing practices omit the risk of damaging elements such as climate change , pesticides or insects . However , replicating Mother Nature is not an easy task . In addition to ensuring that lighting and temperature are always optimal , farmers must also constantly monitor airflow , humidity levels , beneficial bacteria and molds .
“ We ’ re coining ourselves as better than organic ,” said Penniston . “ You can also rest assured that prices won ’ t fluctuate seasonally because indoor plants aren ’ t affected by exterior temperatures .”
Fresh Forage products can currently be found across Winnipeg farmers markets , but access will soon become even easier . The duo has added a third companion to their unit , nutrition enthusiast Leanne Kisil , who will be involved in the development of the new location on Lagimodière Boulevard .
It ’ s often said that less is more , a phrase that certainly holds true for these tiny plants .
For more information on Fresh Forage products , visit freshforage . ca
Photography : Courtesy of Fresh Forage
12 ciao ! / jun / jul / two thousand eighteen