Kale: a worthy superfood!
In conjunction with Exeter University, Suttons tested a wide range of kales and broccolis, both of which have been shown to have high levels of glucosinolates. The Kale Black Magic contained the highest levels of all, with more than 5x the levels of some of the others.
Kale also has high levels of polyphenols and Vitamins A, C and K so whilst nobody would want to live off Kale alone it’s not a bad addition to the diet! Certain varieties also contain anthocyanins and in our trials, ‘Scarlet’ delivered the highest levels.
Kale has had a huge resurgence in recent years thanks to its incredibly high nutritional values,
so much so that we’ve seen headlines like “Kale shortage imminent”. Easy to grow, incredibly productive and with a multitude of colours and leaf shapes… what’s not to like?
What are glucosinolates?
Glucosinolates give rise to mustard oil, the pungent flavour of the cabbage family – when leaves are disrupted this deters insects. Products of certain glucosinolates have been shown in many test-tube and animal studies to suppress cancer cell development. Additionally, a number of investigations have shown a correlation between consumption of these vegetables and a statistically lower risk of developing certain cancers.
The best kale
Black magic and Scarlet kale make great additions to the diet, but they’re even worth growing in the flower borders for their dramatic colour and shape, never mind their reputed health benefits!
Black Magic – Bred in Britain for the british climate!
A newish variety of the Italian black cabbage, bred to perform better in our climate, with improved cold tolerance, colour, leaf shape and bolt resistance than current Italian varieties. Good cut-and-come-again crop.
Scarlet – Very hardy and disease resistant.
A colourful addition to the vegetable or ornamental garden. Delicious purplish-red curled leaves.
