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Today we interview Javier Bernabeu, Managing Director of Sakata Seed Iberica, a company dedicated to the cultivation, production, and commercialization of high-quality vegetable seeds. They have been part of +Broccoli since its inception.
- Since when have you been collaborating with Más Brócoli? And what do you appreciate most about this collaboration?
+Broccoli was created at the initiative of Sakata, as we were the driving force behind the group that formed the Association. We were concerned about the lack of knowledge about this vegetable among Spanish consumers, especially regarding how to cook it. We have always been part of the board of directors and actively participate. A couple of years ago, we also joined a European program to promote this vegetable in other countries. We are aware of what we have achieved, but there is still a long way to go.
- What is the main activity of Sakata’s company?
Sakata is a company dedicated to the research, production, and commercialization of horticultural seeds. Our goal is to develop high-quality vegetables, such as broccoli, pumpkin, melon, or pepper, that adapt to the needs of farmers, the planet, and consumers. Seeds are the beginning of the food chain; therefore, we develop varieties that provide the best response to the needs of producers in the field, considering challenges like climate change. Creating increasingly sustainable varieties is one of Sakata’s pillars. On the other hand, we must meet the demands of the last link in the chain: consumers, people, and ensure that fruits and vegetables produced with our varieties retain all their properties intact and, therefore, all health benefits.
- What caught your attention the most about our favorite vegetable?
We are a century-old company of Japanese origin. In Japan, there is a passion for vegetables in general and for brassicas, such as broccoli, in particular. For many years, we have known that broccoli is the most complete vegetable from a nutritional point of view. Sakata has been developing broccoli varieties for almost a century; it’s part of our DNA. The market recognizes our vast experience in this vegetable, both in Spain and internationally. We are a reference for the entire food chain.
- As you mentioned, Sakata is a reference in broccoli. Why are your varieties so highly valued?
Our varieties are well-balanced; they perform well in all aspects. Agronomically, they are very adaptable, meeting the needs of farmers. Also, in terms of market characteristics such as size, shape, or color. Sakata stands out for the vaulted shape of the heads, their compactness, the type of grain, dark green color, and fineness. These traits give our broccoli a fresh, preserved, and high-quality appearance.
- Where is Sakata directing innovation?
We are looking for varieties that will meet the needs of the entire food chain in 7-8 years, with more adaptability to climate change, more resistant to drought, heat, and diseases. Health is also essential, so we seek varieties that preserve their natural properties or increase the concentration of some healthy nutrients. Additionally, we look for varieties with innovative aspects, such as our Purple Magic, the first in the market with purple florets and stem. We have also introduced in Spain the Bimi® variety, a thinner type of broccoli with a thin and tender edible stem and a milder flavor, for those who want a more tender and gentle broccoli. It can be found in most supermarkets in Spain.
- Broccoli is considered by more and more people as the food of the 21st century. How do you think its evolution will be in the coming years?
Undoubtedly, broccoli consumption will continue to grow because people are becoming more conscious of their diet and are more willing to take care of themselves. However, it is absolutely necessary to continue pushing from +Broccoli to ensure that this vegetable is always present on our social networks or in sales points.
- What other fruit and vegetable promotion lines do you work on in your company?
We have just launched the “Love klabaza/Love Butternut” project to highlight the pumpkin and promote its consumption in Spain and Portugal. A project that already has the collaboration of more than 30 producing companies. And other very interesting promotion projects will come.
- Finally, any favorite recipe that none of our fans should miss?
My special recipe is always to have broccoli or Bimi in the fridge, along with other vegetables and mushrooms. Every night they take center stage; some days I accompany them with meat or fish, and sometimes I prepare them raw or lightly sautéed in salads with other vegetables, cheese, or egg. Lately, I’ve been fond of having spinach salad with mango, raw or sautéed broccoli, goat cheese, and walnuts. EVOO, garlic powder, pepper, and salt.
- Have you noticed a change in societal eating trends? What has this meant for your seed production in recent years?
Despite its recent incorporation into human food, broccoli is a well-established vegetable in markets worldwide. The most common characteristic is that its demand continues to grow significantly in almost all markets. Additionally, the nutritional properties of this vegetable are becoming clearer, making its consumption more advisable. Scientific research continues to support the beneficial health effects of various nutrients in broccoli. The direct consequence of all this is that broccoli production continues to grow globally, and therefore, the demand for seed and the diversification of varieties for the different adaptations required worldwide.
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