Purple Sprouting Broccoli – The Growers Guide
Purple Sprouting Broccoli
Positioned as a high-value, niche product in the market, PSB (Purple Sprouting Broccoli) stands out for its unique attributes. Sporting a vibrant hue, delightful taste, and a plethora of health benefits, PSB captivates growers worldwide. In a market where consumers prioritise colour, flavour, and well-being, PSB emerges as an irresistible choice. At Elsoms, we anticipate substantial PSB growth, envisioning its shift from niche to mainstream. This transformation is set to bring increased value and enhanced sales opportunities for both growers and retailers.
Retailer Packaging
Purple Sprouting Broccoli (PSB) hits the shelves with a packaging strategy designed for freshness and visual appeal. Protective, perforated sleeves or bags showcase the vivid purple hues through transparent packaging. Conveniently bunched and tied, the packaging incorporates eco-friendly options and informative branding, highlighting its UK origin and nutritional benefits. As sustainability gains focus, retailers embrace recyclable materials and deploy modified atmosphere packaging, extending shelf life. With the rising demand for this niche, high-value product, retailers are adjusting their packaging to meet the expectations of environmentally conscious consumers.
‘Superfood’ Health Benefits
In the realm of health benefits, Purple Sprouting Broccoli shines:
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- Vitamins and Minerals: PSB is a rich source of essential vitamins like antioxidant vitamin C and bone-health-supporting vitamin K.
- Antioxidants: Notable antioxidants like sulforaphane and anthocyanins, found in cruciferous vegetables like PSB, are linked to anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
- Fibre Content: PSB offers ample dietary fibre, promoting digestive health, aiding weight maintenance, and contributing to heart health.
- Nutrient Density: Recognised as nutrient-dense, PSB provides a variety of essential nutrients with few calories, aligning with superfood characteristics.
Market Growth
The market for Purple Sprouting Broccoli has experienced consistent growth in the UK over the last decade. This upward trend is expected to persist as PSB gains popularity in international markets.
UK Growing Programme
| PSB Programme | Sow Week | Plant Week | Harvest Week | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burgundy | Week 6 to 26 | 16 to 32 | End of June to late November | 2 to 4 tonnes per acre |
| Cabernet | Week 23 | 30 | Late November to January | 2 tonnes per acre |
| Rioja | Week 21 | 28 | End of Feb to mid-March | 2 tonnes per acre |
| Mendoccino | Week 21 | 28 | Mid-March to early April | 2.5 tonnes per acre |
| Claret | Week 21 | 28 | Early April to mid-April | 2 tonnes per acre |
| Bonarda | Week 21 | 28 | Mid-April to May | 2 tonnes per acre |
Burgundy
The standout performer in the PSB portfolio is unquestionably Burgundy. An outcome of Elsoms’ breeding program, Burgundy, the first ‘main head type’ in the market, promises easy harvesting and a consistent eating experience. Its tender stem and sweet flavour further contribute to its exceptional appeal, not to mention its impressive yields.
You can see the full portfolio of Purple Sprouting Broccoli here
Recipe Inspiration
Lincolnshire’s very own celebrity chef Rachel Green kindly provided us with some incredible recipes using our Burgundy purple sprouting broccoli variety.
Click below to download our recipes