“Because of their bitter taste, dandelions weren’t very popular in the past,” says Colleen Newton with Evergreen Herbs Ltd. They were mainly used in medicines to help shed waste from the body. “During the past two years especially, consumption has increased. There is a greater demand for all things superfood and as a result, dandelions have become much more popular,” commented Newton.
Nutrient rich
“Dandelions contain tons of nutrients. They hold more than 500 percent of the daily value of vitamin K, which strengthens the bones and improves brain functioning. They also contain more than 100 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin A, which supports vision and improves the skin,” added Newton.
Concentrate on leaves and stem
“When eating dandelions, you want to concentrate on the leaves and the stem,” mentioned Newton. Nutrients travel from the root, to the stem, to the leaves and lastly the flowers. As a result, the stem and leaves are much more nutrient-rich than the flowers. The leaves of many leafy green vegetables contain a coating that will prevent the nutrients from being broken down by the body. Because of their thin leaves, dandelions don’t have this coating and nutrients can be broken down by chewing the leaves.
Ingredient in smoothie or salad
Dandelions are sold by the bunch and come in a red and a green leaf variety. “They are most popular juiced or as an ingredient in smoothies. They also taste really good when blanched or just mixed in with a salad,” said Newton. Evergreen Herbs provides this product to restaurant distributors and retailers in Western Canada. The company grows 140 acres of edible flowers, herbs, gourmet lettuces and specialty vegetables.
For more information:
Colleen Newton
Evergreen Herbs Ltd.
Tel: 1-877-HERBS GO (437 2746)