The Flower Sprout, also known as BrusselKale in the U.S., is a cross between Brussels sprouts and kale and is gaining popularity. As of the beginning of November, this super food will be available in various European supermarkets. Robin Bartels, from Tozer Seeds, says that their growing area is increasing annually, "We thought we were dealing with a niche product, but it is becoming widely popular."
Tozer Seeds at Fruit Attraction 2015. Third from the left is Robin Bartels, sales & marketing manager and on the right is the Tozer Iberica team.
Growth throughout Europe
"We really could not have imagined the growth we are seeing now," continues Robin. "In England the product is widely known and available in every supermarket. We are seeing demand increase in other countries as well, such as Norway, Sweden, Germany, France, Spain and Switzerland. In addition, we see a lot of potential in the Netherlands and Belgium. The marketing process differs per market because, for example, in one market the product may sell quicker than in another market. Some people first want to see that other retailers have it before they put it on their own shelves."
Flower Sprout at Fruit Attraction.
173 acres
Tasting at Fruit Attraction
For more information:
Robin Bartels
Tozer Seeds
Pyports, Downside Bridge Road
Cobham, Surrey
KT11 3EH (UK)
T: +44 (0)1932 862 059
F: +44 (0)1932 868 973
www.tozerseeds.com
Flower Sprout at Fruit Attraction.
173 acres
In Europe they have a total of 173 acres, "With the most being grown in England. After which comes Belgium and the Netherlands and smaller growing areas in other European countries. The super food is grown between November and March, and this will increase in the coming years. We have several varieties: early, mid- and late. A new variety may be added in the future so that we can extend the season." Robin is not disappointed that the super food is no longer a niche product, "The price will remain at a good level as long as there is demand."
Tasting at Fruit Attraction
This year the Flower Sprout was available to taste for the first time at Fruit Attraction. On Thursday October 29th at 'Fruit Fusion' cooks showed how the Flower Sprout could be used in the kitchen. Since last week the Flower Sprout has a new website with information on the product and various recipes. The Flower Sprout is a real winter vegetable, but it is also very versatile, and can even be used in a salad. Check out the new website: www.flower-sprout.com
For more information:
Robin Bartels
Tozer Seeds
Pyports, Downside Bridge Road
Cobham, Surrey
KT11 3EH (UK)
T: +44 (0)1932 862 059
F: +44 (0)1932 868 973
www.tozerseeds.com