'Waiter, please could I have a broccoli coffee?'
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This sentence may sound crazy, to say the least, but know that it’s actually common in a café in Melbourne. Here’s why…
The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and Hort Innovation (a farmers group) have developed a fine broccoli powder which you can add to smoothies, baked goods and of course, hot drinks. This strange mixture is made from unsold products taken from Australian supermarkets and therefore helps fight against food waste.
Get your daily dose of vegetables
This powder is just as good for the planet as it is for the human body. Two spoons of this mixture is the equivalent to a whole plate of broccoli. However, the vegetable is also a source of vitamin B6, manganese, vitamin E and fibre. John Lloyd, PDG of Hort Innovation told the Guardian:
Research shows the average Australian is still not eating the recommended daily intake of vegetables a day, and options such as broccoli powder will help address this.
A study led by the CSIRO and Hort Innovation in 2017 showed that in Australia, 51% of adults don't eat enough fruit. According to the same study, two-thirds ofAustralians don’t eat vegetables, which is even worse than the previous figure. John Said is the manager of Fresh Select, a company that is helping to develop this product. He says that, where some see a problem, he sees a new market:
Australians don’t eat enough vegetables and farmers across Australia will have access to an alternative market whilst improving farm yields and sustainability. They will also be contributing to healthier lifestyles.
Broccoli, a superfood
Everything about broccoli is good. To make the powder, the whole vegetable is used, right down to the florets at the stem. Before drying them out and making them into powder, a treatment is applied so it maintains the green colour, taste and nutrients—something that may even make it healthier. Research shows that finely cutting broccoli increases the activity of the glucosinolates in it, which have antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties.
Broccoli has numerous benefits. It’s mostly renowned for its preventative properties against cancer and is particularly rich in vitamins, with more vitamin C than an orange. A study has claimed that it can even to help fight against chronic obstructive bronchitis, which is good news for smokers.
For those who wish to try it, there’s no need to go all the way to Australia, as similar powders are on sale online.
