Matching Items (2)
Description
A comparison of the total phenolic content, total vitamin C, and concentration of arsenic were tested in leafy vegetables (basil and kale) grown in aeroponic systems and conventional agriculture soil acquired from local supermarkets. In general, the study shows that plants grown in aeroponic systems show comparable yield of Vitamin C and phenolic content, with absence of significant amounts of arsenic in aeroponically grown samples compared to those grown conventionally in soil.
ContributorsCarlton, Christopher (Co-author) / Harper, William (Co-author) / Huffman, Holly (Thesis director) / MclLwraith, Heide (Committee member) / College of Integrative Sciences and Arts (Contributor) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor)
Created2019-05
Description
Food deserts and food insecurity can negatively impact the health of communities. Urban farming, specifically with aeroponics systems, could be a possible solution in alleviating food insecurity in food deserts. In order to test and understand what type of system and products work best in such areas, this thesis looks at urban farming from farms' and consumers' perspective using qualitative and quantitative data. The qualitative data was collected from current businesses that are using urban farming techniques within the Phoenix valley. Based on the quantitative research, the consumers studied seemed willing to eat leafy greens and vegetables given that they are affordable, fresh, and they understand how to cook them. Further research could be a more focused study on residents of specific neighborhoods that are classified as food deserts. Another aspect that could be researched further is the other factors affecting the health of residents located in food deserts other than the availability of food. This could include, but is not limited to, lack of nutritional education, insufficient cooking materials, and personal food preferences.
ContributorsRaymond, Yann Gaby Jean (Co-author) / Curtiss, Mary (Co-author) / Grebitus, Carola (Thesis director) / Schmitz, Troy (Committee member) / School of Sustainability (Contributor) / Department of Management and Entrepreneurship (Contributor) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor)
Created2018-05