The research and development department recently performed an investigation to characterize phytochemical profiles in buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) during vegetative growth. Buckwheat contains a number of beneficial phytochemicals with antioxidant activity including the carotenoids lutein and β-carotene, the flavonoid rutin, anthocyanins, and vitamin E. Levels of these phytochemicals change during the growth of the plant from sprout through seed maturation. Weekly characterization of buckwheat across different field locations and sowing periods allowed for a robust determination of the optimal harvest time for peak phytochemical concentration.

Results showed carotenoid concentrations are highest during the early stage of growth (week 2-3), while rutin and anthocyanins peak during the 4-5th week of growth. Several different measures of total antioxidant capacity of buckwheat indicate that water-soluble antioxidants are maximal between weeks 3-4, while lipophilic antioxidants continue to increase throughout 7 weeks of vegetative growth before declining.

The characterization of antioxidant phytochemicals in buckwheat allows for farming operations that maximally select for the highest quality raw materials.