"More and more people are spending time in their kitchens. They want to prepare the tastiest, healthiest meals. So, they experiment a lot with cooking techniques, dishes, and products. That creates opportunities for new products, like graffiti aubergines", says a spokesperson for The Greenery in the Netherlands. Starting this week, this purple and white striped variety will be available from various European retailers.
The Greenery, its growers and customers, are continually exploring new possibilities. That's for existing and new products. They want to surprise consumers and encourage fruit and vegetable consumption. "Our market data shows that purple aubergine sales have been on an upward trend for several years. Aubergines are popular, and retailers are, therefore, freeing up more shelf space for this product."
"We've not only been following the healthy eating trend. We also follow other emerging trends like veg and the culinary home chef. We've done that for some time now. That's based on our consumer insights. The green barbecue will also develop further in the future. These insights show opportunities for graffiti aubergines. Harvesting has begun, so the first of these aubergines have reached European store shelves. And with their striking appearance, they immediately attract attention," says the company's representative.
Unusual aubergines
In the Netherlands, Dennis van Luijk cultivates these aubergines. This family business has been around for 50 years. Van Luijk grows standard aubergines. But it's the only Dutch company that also grows unusual aubergine varieties. The graffiti aubergine is one of those - a purple aubergine with a unique mottled pattern. "This variety tastes like purple aubergines. It just looks different and absorbs less moisture. Its distinctive peel will give your dish that little extra flair," Dennis explains.
According to Dennis, this aubergine has a firm bite and structure too. That makes it a perfect meat replacer. Check out www.verseoogst.nl/veggiesfirst for more inspiration.
For more information:
The Greenery
Perry Dijkhuizen
Tel: +31 (0) 651 361 470
Email: P.Dijkhuizen@thegreenery.com