Beemster Garlic first SMK certified garlic grower

Beemster Garlic is a family company that has been growing fresh garlic in the Netherlands for over thirty years. "Because we're specialised in long storage, we can supply Dutch garlic from June to March," says Jan Kruiswijk of Beemster Garlic. "In the Beemster the garlic bulbs are cut, pealed, sorted and packaged to order. An order in the morning means having it in the afternoon. The garlic is supplied very fresh." The sales are done through Best of Four.

First with an Eco-Label
Jan indicates that Beemster Garlic is now the first certified Dutch garlic grower with the Eco-Label: Plant Proof, produced by SMK (Stichting Milieu Keur). The Milieukeur criteria concern the entire life cycle of a product or service. In the case of Beemster Garlic from the moment of purchase of the seeding goods to the customer. "Together with SMK we gave shape to the guidelines for the sustainability themes and are opening the path to other growers to also join this sustainable cultivation."

Volume growth
He continues: "Because we grow, store and process ourselves, we can play into all changes and questions at any moment. In this way we can guarantee the continuity of our company and that of our customers."

In the area of fresh garlic cultivation Beemster Garlic has realised volume growth in recent years. "This is by innovating in long storage and taking care of the customers all year round."

Imports
When the Dutch season is over, garlic is imported. "Through intensive collaboration and guidance from Mediterranean growers a good quality and availability is safeguarded. The processing of this garlic is also done from Middenbeemster."

In collaboration with Bresc the garlic that doesn't meet the right quality for the fresh market is processed into a high end convenience product. "This means that the brand Beemster Garlic is also accessible for catering and supermarkets in ready made paste form. Bresc also processes some garlic to supply to the food industry. The regional and sustainable aspects make this garlic special." Jan Kruiswijk sees the future positively: "We will continue to focus on the best quality and good service and also see a lot of innovation opportunities."

For more information:
Beemster Garlic bv
Rijperweg 129
1462 MH Beemster
Nederland
+31 (0)6 22466103
info@beemstergarlic.nl
www.beemstergarlic.nl