Thanks to work from Thailand's National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Wolffia is now seen as a powerful source of nutrition and a strong candidate for sustainable farming. NSTDA's research and partnerships are boosting Wolffia's value, aiming to help farmers and the environment while supporting global food needs.
Each bit measures less than a millimetre across and grows without roots or leaves, spreading quickly by budding in calm water. Despite its size, Wolffia is rich in nutrients. It provides up to 24% protein by dry weight, carries all essential amino acids, is a source of vitamin B12, and has many minerals and plant compounds. It also contains 38% carbohydrates, 20% ash, and 3% fat, making it a balanced food similar to more common crops. Its high protein makes it popular for people who want plant-based options or more sustainable diets.
Wolffia stands out as a green protein source that uses far fewer resources than raising animals. A 2025 report from Roi-Et Rajabhat University showed that rice noodles with 5% Wolffia powder had double the protein, extra chlorophyll, more plant compounds, and better antioxidant power. The noodles were easier to digest, with protein digestibility up by 22% and a lower glycemic index.
Wolffia is also easy on the environment. It grows in water, doesn't need soil, and uses very little extra water. Grown without chemical fertilizers, it doubles its mass every day or two, making it efficient for food production. NSTDA's closed-loop vertical farming setups use greenhouses and water recycling to limit waste and contamination. These methods have lifted processed wolffia's value from 15 baht per kilo to 4,000 baht per kilo, giving farmers a better income.
Source: www.chiangraitimes.com