A new variety of asparagus that can also be eaten raw is to be trialled in the UK next week.
Cheshunt, England, 2015-5-1 — /EPR Retail News/ — The variety, called Burgundine, is a purple and green cross and has been grown in Thornham, north Norfolk, specifically as a new salad crop.
Burgundine asparagus will be sold exclusively by Tesco. The supermarket believes that the new variety could prove popular with office workers looking for a healthy lunchtime snack.
The variety can be eaten raw after being washed because it contains slightly less lignim, the fibre element in asparagus.
Tesco produce buyer James Strathdee said: “The great thing about Burgundine asparagus is its versatility because it can be eaten both raw and also gently steamed or stir fried.
“It is an eye-catching variety that is exceptionally sweet, juicy, crunchy and great for eating with dips and in salads.
“English asparagus is acknowledged by foodies to be the best in the world because of our climate and soil, which supports perfect growing conditions.
“This is the first time that Burgundine asparagus has been commercially grown in the UK. If customers like it then we plan to grow more for next year.”
Tesco finest* Burgundine salad asparagus will go on sale in 102 Tesco stores on Monday April 27 and will cost £2 for a 100g.
Tesco also sells the following asparagus lines: a 250g bundle, tips, white, Jubilee, and fine.
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
Asparagus is:
· Low in fat with typically less than 1g fat per 100g
· Low in calories with typically less than 25 calories (kcal) per 100g
· A source of fibre to help maintain a healthy digestive system
· A source of folic acid which supports the development of your baby before and during pregnancy
· A source of vitamin C for a healthy immune system
The British Asparagus season usually lasts from St George’s Day on April 21 until Midsummer’s Day on June 21.
For more information please contact the Tesco Press Office on 01992 644645
We are a team of over 500,000 people in 12 markets dedicated to providing the most compelling offer to our customers.
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