UK: Sprouts to star on Christmas TV
Sprout farmer, Martin Haines, who is based in Chipping Campden, hosted a visit from Adam Henson and the Countryfile crew to give them a unique insight into Brassica production and their place as a festive tradition both in the UK and overseas.
Viewers will watch as Martin and his team demonstrate the process of harvesting sprouts, as well as picking up on some sprout-tacular statistics – for example, an estimated 434 million sprouts are sold in the fortnight leading up to the festivities.
One of Martin’s production managers also invited Adam for a traditional Polish
Christmas dinner at his house, with his family who had all arrived in the UK to spend the festive season with him. They’ll be seen tucking into carp, herring – and plenty of cabbage, as part of their feast, which takes place on Christmas Eve in Poland.
The appearance on prime time Christmas television further cements the Brassica Growers Association’s Love Your Greens campaign, which is helping raise awareness of Brassica vegetables and their benefits.
Matt Rawson, Chairman of the Brassica Growers Association,
commented:
“We were absolutely delighted to have the Countryfile team at one of our farms. It’s great to be showcasing Brassicas, and raising the profile of Brussels sprouts. They may cause some controversy at Christmas but we’ve seen a 15% increase in sales year on year. We grow some great varieties, available all year round. Flower sprouts, sprout tops and even multicoloured varieties such as the Redarling – sprouts are for life, not just for Christmas!”
The Countryfile Christmas special will be shown on BBC One at 7pm on
December 21st.
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