Brussels sprouts are expected to be up to 25% larger this year because of favourable growing conditions.
As per The Guardian, the introduction of new types of sprouts and the influence of sea air have led to the growth of exceptionally large Brussels sprouts for the upcoming holiday season.
The average size of Brussels sprouts this year is 30mm in diameter. This is larger than last year’s average of 24mm, which was smaller due to less favourable harvesting conditions.
Simon Tenwick, Tesco buying manager, said in a statement, “We’ve been working hard this year to bring in new varieties that have helped us deliver a better tasting sprout with a crunchier texture and perfect size.”
The statement added, “The quality of the festive crop that has been coming through in the last few weeks is among the best we’ve had in recent years and we are certain sprout fans will be delighted.”
Tesco has been working with its suppliers to develop more resilient crop varieties that can survive the UK’s climate.
The unusually high rainfall earlier this year delayed planting, which has raised concerns about potential shortages of crops like potatoes, wheat and other vegetables.
Tesco expects to sell 1.5 million kilograms of Brussels sprouts in the two weeks before Christmas, which is about a quarter of the total amount of sprouts sold each year and a total weight of 285 London buses.
