Researchers believe they have finally found a way to get young people to like Brussels sprouts. According to agro-scientists at R & K Drysdale, one of the UK’s largest brassica growers based in Cockburnspath, Scotland, investment in an ultra hi-tec grading machine is helping them select the perfect sprout.
Working with Tesco to supply around 70 per cent of its sprout demand, the machine - nicknamed the sproutatron - allows Drysdale to accurately size the sprouts with the push of a button. By matching sprouts according to size, customers will find their packs have more consistently sized sprouts within each bag, making the cooking process more even.
But equally important has been the introduction of new milder and sweeter sprout varieties, particularly one called Cobelius, which is more palatable than the traditional variety.
The sproutatron and the new, milder varieties are clearly having a positive effect, as a recent survey by Tesco revealed that the number of 18-to-24-year-olds who claim to ‘love’ sprouts has risen from 26 per cent in 2021 to 44 per cent in 2022.
Source: tescoplc.com