Lemnoideae duckweed - an aquatic plant with the ability to grow fast - is very much in Vietnam, especially in rural areas. Duckweed farming is usually done on a family scale to be used as animal feed.

Duckweed contains vitamins A, B1, B2, and amino acids do not replace, except methionine. Growing under optimal nutritional and culture conditions, the protein content of duckweed can reach 45% by weight of dry matter, which is very high compared to other plants and is equivalent to the protein content present in soybeans. In particular, the pigment in duckweek (Chlorophyll) contains nutritional value that can replace protein and has been applied in pharmaceuticals, foodstuffs in foreign countries. However, in the country there is no research on the exploitation of pigments from duckweed. Facing that fact, the research team of the Center for the Young Science and Technology Development of Ho Chi Minh City has carried out the project "Research on the process of producing chlorophyll pigments from duckweed", in order to improve the value of use, to create a new colorant and a source of new crops for the people of the country.

Duckweek after 15-20 days is harvested, washed, removed impurities, dried and ground. Duckweed powder with 80% acetone solvent was extracted at room temperature for 8 hours, supplemented with magnesium carbonate (MgCO3), then centrifuged to obtain chlorophyll solution. After concentration of chlorophyll solution, a colorant preparation SCC (Sodium Copper Chlorophyllin) was obtained, meeting the requirements of food safety and hygiene. The SCC preparation added to carbonated soft drinks gives it a green color and does not alter the taste.

Currently, the authors have built a technological process to produce water-soluble SCC from duckweed, and continue to experiment with adding SCC to other food products. The team also wants to be able to transfer technology to units that need research results to be commercialized. Thence, creating new products from duckweed, providing more crops for people, especially in low-lying areas of the southern region.