Watahan Trading Co., Ltd., in collaboration with Casa Natural Co., Ltd., has begun full-scale planting of edible prickly pear cactus, branded as 'SABOVEG'.
大规模 planting is taking place across three regions: Okinawa Main Island, Miyakojima, and Iida City in Nagano Prefecture, totaling approximately 1,500 tsubo. This represents one of the largest cultivation efforts for edible prickly pear cactus in Japan.
Features of SABOVEG Developed under the concept of 'cactus as a new vegetable,' this brand aims to redefine the perception of cacti. In countries like Mexico, it is a staple vegetable akin to cabbage. When cooked, it offers a tender texture with a subtle mucilage similar to okra, while raw, it is crisp and refreshing. It is rich in dietary fiber and minerals and is attracting attention as a sustainable crop capable of growing in arid lands with minimal water consumption.
Future Outlook The company has been conducting trial cultivation for several years. By leveraging the distinct climates of Okinawa and greenhouse cultivation in Nagano, they aim to collect comprehensive growth data. Moving forward, the company plans to introduce SABOVEG not only to supermarket produce sections but also as a raw material for health foods, food ingredients, and the food service industry, effectively creating a new market for edible cacti in Japan.
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- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: News