Celery
As one of the largest growers of celery in Europe with production in the UK, Spain, Poland and The Czech Republic, we have innovation workstreams with breeders around the world to ensure the best possible celery varieties are trialed within our growing systems.
G’s Global Celery Search
For the past 12 years we have enjoyed exclusive access to the Duda American celery genetics, which have been bred for a taller growth habit, but also a sweeter less stringy eating experience. These Duda varieties have been optimised for our celery stick pack production in both the UK and Spain.
Our search for new celery varieties has taken us across three continents, with strong bolt tolerant varieties from Australia, tall sweet varieties from the US and core traditional stick varieties from the UK Dutch, Spanish and Italian markets.
We are working with seed companies from around the world to find a suitable alternative to sit alongside Victoria that will match its strong consistent characteristics and improve on aspects such as visual appeal, reduced stringiness, lower water uptake and ultimately improved taste acceptance."
Celery Taste
A key objective is to increase celery consumption in all our markets.
Given that 25% to 30% consumption is cold, (more in summer seasons) producing consistently good tasting product is important.
- Consumers prefer celery that is crunchy. juicy and tasty
- Sweet celery creates a positive intent to purchase again
- Colour and aroma are much less important
Our work to improve eating quality, sweetness and consistency is based on variety selection, careful watering and enhanced crop nutrition.
- Reducing nitrate content of sap by ensuring magnesium supply is adequate to ensure rapid nitrate metabolism
- Reducing potassium supply to limit sap content and maintain desirable potassium: calcium ratios
- Reduce chloride supply and uptake
Our work on enhanced nutrition programmes is consistent with our transition to regenerative farming where we are using balanced nutrition to increase rates of photosynthesis in all our cash and cover crops.
Celery Innovation Strategy
As European celery leaders, we’re committed to constant improvement. Investing in diverse varieties improving the taste, appearance, and resilience.
Our focus extends beyond maintaining standards; we’re elevating celery, refining taste, and implementing technology for consistent quality from farm to table. Each stick represents a fusion of flavour, setting new benchmarks in the industry.
Recognizing the transformative power of technology, we’re improving the celery production process. By precision harvesting and growing methods, we ensure the uniformity and excellence of each celery stick. Every step, from planting to delivery, is optimized to improve standards.