South Korea: Asia Seed develops new baby leaf hybrid

Salads and the greens that go into them have enjoyed a surge in popularity worldwide, as consumers become more aware of the benefits of a healthy diet full of greens. Capitalizing on this trend, Asia Seed Company has developed a baby leaf hybrid that they think will do well in the market.

“In the past, there had been many varieties of baby leaf products before we started developed our new baby leaf hybrid,” said Jun – Oh Kim of Asia Seed. “This hybrid is unique because of the red and purple leaves that contain anthocyanin, which is being studied for its health benefits.” The colours achieved in the new variety are of a deeper violet when compared to competing baby leaves.

Baby leafs are particularly popular in salads, especially in the United States, Europe and Australia, and Kim noted that their hybrid variety is very well suited for use in salads, both because of taste and nutrition. Asia Seed's varieties are low in bitterness and come in several leaf shapes, making them versatile options when putting together a salad.

“The advantage of baby leaf varieties is that they are designed in the first place to be used in salads,” said Kim. “They are better suited for salads, compared to normal leaf varieties, and they can be used in salads with or without dressing.” The leaves are mostly of a type that gives a 100 percent purity rate and instances of bolting, which is when leaves acquire a very bitter taste due to heat, are very rare. The production methods employed to cultivate the leaves also make it an attractive option for growers.

“Many varieties with thin and long petiole gives advantages when harvested using a machine, and they store well in low temperature after its harvest,” said Kim. “Varieties are strong even during the summer season while the deep red color is obtained during winter season harvest.”

For more information:
Asia Seed Co., LTD.
Mr. Jun-Oh Kim, General Manager
Trading Department
T:+82-70-4016-8460
M: +82 10-2415-7803
E-Mail: herbseed@chol.net
asiaseed@asiaseed.co.kr
www.asiaseed.net