Transforming “ugly” produce into powder for incorporation into various foods and beverages is an intriguing idea. This method not only prevents vegetables from going to waste but also enhances nutritional intake by adding more vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber to the average diet. According to Lloyd, many Australians are still not consuming the recommended daily servings of vegetables—a trend echoed in the U.S., as highlighted by statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The convenience factor plays a significant role here; some consumers may find it simpler to incorporate powdered forms of vegetables like broccoli into their meals rather than purchasing, washing, and preparing fresh produce at home.
Mary Ann Augustin, the lead researcher at CSIRO, explained that the powder is created from whole broccoli, which is pre-treated and dried to preserve its natural color, flavor, and nutrient profile. She emphasized that the vegetable’s high levels of protein, fiber, and bioactive phytochemicals make it an excellent candidate for powdering. Other vegetables, including alfalfa, spinach, and kale, are also being processed into powders, with more to come. Additionally, fruit powders are available, such as those made from strawberries, blueberries, açai, goji berries, and pomegranates. These powders can be used in a variety of products like yogurt, beverages, and baked goods.
Manufacturers have the opportunity to incorporate vegetable and fruit powders into healthier products and promote their functional benefits. This is particularly relevant for Australian farmers, who might explore the potential of broccoli powder now that it has been developed. Augustin noted that these powders provide an option for growers looking to create value-added vegetables for the profitable functional foods market. Furthermore, she mentioned that powdered broccoli has already been successfully integrated into extruded snacks. In this context, the use of powdered vegetables can serve as an alternative to traditional supplements, like calcium tablets (CCM), offering a natural way to boost nutrient intake.