Winter crops are arriving in stores just in time for those seeking out foods to boost immunity during the cold and flu season.
Jerry Prendergast, President of United Fresh noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has raised the profile of products which provide natural immunity support.
“We’re fortunate that New Zealand’s mix of climate and soils produces vegetables that provide a huge range of key nutrients that support immunity, such as vitamin C, folate, and iron. These nutrients are naturally found in many winter vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, silver beet and kūmara.”
“A strong immune system is our best defence against winter illness and eating at least five servings of vegetables every day is the best, most affordable way to ensure we get all the nutrients we need for immune support.”
Make the most of consumers actively seeking out the freshest, most beneficial, in-season crops.
“Winter is a bleak time for us all, but a colourful, attractive dish of vegetables brightens and lifts the mood and inspires consumers to select healthy options.”
Anthony Blundell, Managing Director of Kaipara Kūmara and Vice President of United Fresh said the 2022 kūmara harvest is near completion, with early indications suggesting the overall crop is down around 5-10 percent from last year.
“The quality of the kūmara harvested stacks up pretty good when compared to previous years. This was helped by a hot summer with just the right amount of rain at the right times, followed by favourable weather conditions throughout the harvest months. However, it does look to be another challenging year for growers.”
The majority of our kūmara is grown in Northland in the Northern Wairoa region where soil type and climatic conditions suit this root crop perfectly. Kūmara is harvested from February to May and is then stored in a temperature and humidity- controlled environment. During this important storage period, they undergo a naturally occurring process converting starch to sugar.
Look out for the range of varieties - Orange (Beauregard), Red (Owairaka), Gold (Toka Toka) and the newest variety, Purple Dawn.
Fresh green vegetables also make an important part of a winter menu and have a big part to play in providing support to the immune system. This month Brussels sprouts, celery, Asian vegetables and leeks will be in good supply.
Leafy greens such as kale, silver beet and spinach will also provide a deeper green tone to dishes and should be kept refrigerated where possible for optimum freshness.
