Diggin' In: A Letter From Hoss 🌱

     When too much nitrogen is applied to crops, it can build up inside the plant and cause nitrite poisoning. In the U.S., there are no restrictions on nitrogen application to food crops. In fact, a farmer could apply nitrogen to a lettuce field and harvest it that very same day. Even washing your greens thoroughly only removes about 10–15% of nitrites on the surface. But what about the nitrogen absorbed inside the plant?

     The European Union attempts to regulate and advise on nitrogen levels in food. The U.S., however, does not test or enforce any restrictions on how much—or how often—nitrogen can be applied. In a 2023 National Institute of Health study, Swiss chard and mixed salad samples showed the highest prevalence of nitrite contamination, with 41.2% and 54.5% affected.

Why Growing Your Own is the Answer

     The safest way to ensure you’re eating truly healthy greens is to grow them yourself. With a simple indoor setup, you can harvest fresh lettuce 365 days a year. You’ll enjoy a steady supply of salads—and the peace of mind of knowing exactly what’s in your food.

• Hanging Grow Light Kit

• Indoor Seed Starting Light Kit

• Kitchen Garden Light Kit

• Coastal Star Romaine

• Butter Crunch Lettuce

• Baby Leaf Lettuce Mix

• Harmony Butterhead Lettuce

• Pint Size (Mini Iceberg Type)

• Red Tide Lettuce