Stam Schaap in Ursem specializes in year-round cultivation, processing and trade of beetroot. The company grows the beets on an acreage of 130 hectares. “The past decade, we have been specializing fully in cultivation and processing of beetroot,” Maikel Stam says. “The soil in the Wester-Koggenland polder is excellently suited to beetroot cultivation. The soil, rich in humus, makes for a beautiful, bright red colour, and the smoothness and flavour are also guaranteed.”
Most beetroot to Eastern Bloc
Beetroot isn’t one of the most consumed vegetables in the Netherlands. Maikel notes that the laborious preparation, as well as the earthy flavour, probably prevents consumers from eating them. “Young people in particular prefer the pre-cooked product. For us, the Eastern Bloc is the main market. There, beetroot is often used to make soup.” He says the Russian boycott did put his business under pressure. For the large volumes, which normally go to Russia, another destination has to be found now. “But it’s also interesting to find new markets for the coming years.”
Popularity
Although it’s not a big product in the Netherlands, Maikel does notice beetroot becoming more popular. The many cooking shows also contribute to more variation with the product. This is mainly thanks to the positive health effects. They contain a lot of vitamins, minerals, folic acid, calcium, and iron. He expects consumption in the Netherlands to increase a bit in the coming years. “I believe there are a lot more possibilities. In Australia, for instance, a slice of beetroot is included in burgers. If we could reach that point here as well, that would mean a huge increase.
In conjunction with Q-Potato Holland BV, main supplier to Yellow Chips in Emmeloord, we’re currently making beetroot crisps, which has a culinary flavour and is a growing market. And beetroot juice, which has seen a lot of interest in recent years. Beetroot juice is super healthy, it’s called the new healthy doping, and is also said to be beneficial against disease. Still, consumption is not yet as good as hoped. This is mainly due to the typical flavour. Although it takes some getting used to, we are working on that.”
In conjunction with Q-Potato Holland BV, main supplier to Yellow Chips in Emmeloord, we’re currently making beetroot crisps, which has a culinary flavour and is a growing market. And beetroot juice, which has seen a lot of interest in recent years. Beetroot juice is super healthy, it’s called the new healthy doping, and is also said to be beneficial against disease. Still, consumption is not yet as good as hoped. This is mainly due to the typical flavour. Although it takes some getting used to, we are working on that.”
More information:
Stam Schaap
Maikel Stam