“Asparagus in general has become more popular in recent years,” says Julia Inestroza with Gourmet Trading Company. The company grows and distributes green and white asparagus year-round and has the purple variety available during the holidays.
Carried by limited number of retailers
“In the US, the white variety is not nearly as popular as it is in Europe,” said Inestroza. There is room for consumption growth as consumers learn about the vegetable and how to prepare it. “Additionally, it is not carried in all retail outlets currently, which offers a huge opportunity for increased distribution.”
Although availability at grocery stores throughout the US seems to be limited, Gourmet Trading offers white asparagus year-round. This variety is sourced in the north of Peru and “we have strong supplies throughout the year due to the region’s perfect growing conditions,” says Kristen Francisco with Gourmet Trading Company. “Generally, white asparagus is carried by high-end US retailers year-round.” In addition to domestic distribution, Gourmet Trading exports the premium vegetable to Asia as well.
US consumption spikes in spring
White asparagus is truly a delicacy. In Europe, it is considered the king of vegetables and available in spring only. It is usually consumed simmered and topped with hollandaise. “In the US, it is often consumed the same way as in Europe, but we’ve also seen fine dining establishments preparing it in non-traditional ways,” said Inestroza. “One organization promoted it as an alternative to jicama,” she added. US consumption of white asparagus is pretty steady year-round. It usually spikes around holidays and during the traditional European white asparagus season in spring.
For more information
Julia Inestroza / Kristen Francisco
Gourmet Trading Company
Tel: (+1) 310-216-7575