What anti-nutrient compound is absorbed by lettuce roots and can accumulate in higher concentrations in older leaves?
Answer
Nitrate
While lettuce offers extensive nutritional benefits, it naturally contains certain anti-nutrient compounds that warrant awareness. Among these, nitrate is prominently discussed. This substance is naturally taken up from the soil through the plant's roots and subsequently translocated and concentrated within the leaf tissue. A key observation is that older leaves tend to accumulate higher concentrations of this compound compared to younger ones. Although cultivation practices like careful nitrogen management aim to keep levels regulated and within established safety standards, excessive nitrate intake remains a potential health concern.
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