COACHELLA, CA – Cold wintery nights call for delicious, warm vegetables by the fire, and one of my favorites to enjoy is Brussels sprouts. Sautéed, baked, or roasted, Brussels sprouts are a winter produce must for anyone looking for a delicious vegetable that is both versatile in the kitchen and offers nutrition-rich health benefits.
With the season in full swing, I caught up with Ocean Mist Farms’ Commodity Account Manager John Shaw, to check in on this season’s supply of Brussels sprouts.
“At this time, we’ve had no problems with weather this year, and as a result are expecting the same volume this winter as we did last winter,” John shares with me. “Quality from all three of our growing regions has been very good as well.”
Although they look like a miniature cabbage, Brussels sprouts have a denser texture and milder flavor. Low in fat, sodium, and cholesterol, as well as a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, Brussels sprouts are a great option to highlight in the produce department for consumers looking to integrate a healthier vegetable into their diet for the New Year.
For those retailers looking to provide consumers with this healthy option, John assures me that Ocean Mist Farms’ three growing regions for Brussels sprouts are steady and ready to give 2018 as good of a go in supply as 2017.
“We have about three weeks left in Castroville, California, while Baja, Mexico started last week, and we just started Coachella, California, with each location performing well,” John continues. “So far, markets for Brussels sprouts are steady and consistent, and demand and prices seem to be steady as well.”
The best type of sprouts are bright green, evenly shaped, firm, and heavy for their size. With supplies shaping up for a good harvest, look for Ocean Mist Farms’ Brussels sprouts today for a happy and healthy 2018.
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