Gaomi kale takes root in homes across China and beyond
The Wanmuliangtian Family Farm in Gaomi has been bustling with activity as workers harvest kale in the greenhouse, while merchants from Liaocheng test the plant's sugar content. The farm's kale exports are stable, making up 10 percent of the European and American markets, while domestic production ensures timely delivery.
Workers harvest kale at Gaomi's Wanmuliangtian Family Farm. [Photo provided by Wang Honglei/for chinadaily.com.cn]
In 2024, over 1,300 mu (86.7 hectares) of kale was planted at the farm, known as Asia's largest kale export base, with an annual output of 3,000 metric tons. Kale, which is rich in nutrients, has become a favorite in the UK, US, and among fitness enthusiasts in China. The launch of the "Champion Slimming Bottle" in 2024, a product featuring kale, sparked a surge in domestic consumption.
The farm adheres to the EU's strict standards, ensuring quality through comprehensive testing, which has attracted many international merchants looking to cooperate. With growing health awareness in China, the farm has shifted focus to the local market and expanded greenhouse farming.
Wang Cuifen, the farm's manager, highlights kale's health benefits, including its antioxidant and anti-cancer properties. To meet rising demand, the farm has partnered with major processing companies to create over 40 kale-based products, including noodles, dumplings, and yogurt. This year, the farm plans to increase its kale-growing area by 66.7 hectares, making this nutrient-dense vegetable more accessible to consumers. (Edited by Lin Li)
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