LeaderBrand sweet corn to hit stores early this summer.
Thanks to a record-breaking hot and dry spring on the East Cape, LeaderBrand sweet corn will be in supermarkets early this year.
The first corn fields were planted in early August and were expected to mature the week of Christmas, but this year, the first LeaderBrand cobs will be in store at the end of the week, two weeks earlier than scheduled.
General Manager of Farming, Gordon McPhail, said that sweet corn thrives in hot weather and Mother Nature has delivered in abundance this year. This was the first time in several years that LeaderBrand would plant and harvest corn in the same week.
“This spring, the weather is breaking records on the East Cape, which has been perfect for our corn and melon crops. The high temperature and long days are perfect for creating creamy corn packed with sweetness,” said McPhail.
“The last couple of years, we haven’t really needed to use our irrigation systems, this year, it’s been in constant use, and the whole team has been busy doing a fantastic job looking after the crops. It’s a nice alternative to have this year after a couple of years of what felt like permanent rain.”
Sweet corn is one of New Zealanders' favourite vegetables. When it hits the stores, it always takes the number one spot over strawberries.
“We’re delighted to be able to supply our sweet corn early this year. The versatility of corn makes it a popular choice for family dinners, especially because it's particularly kid-friendly.”
McPhail said LeaderBrand prides itself on the corn grown in Gisborne. They aim to grow beautiful green husks packed with fat, sweet, yellow kernels and harvest by hand to select the best maturity and quality while reducing any damage.
As soon as it leaves the field, the corn is immediately chilled in LeaderBrand’s state-of-the-art forced air-cooling facility. This locks in the freshness and brings core temperatures below five degrees.
“Then we make sure that it's in your local supermarket the day after it leaves our fields, chilled the whole way to ensure you’re getting the freshest corn in the market.”
LeaderBrand has been growing corn for more than 20 years, and McPhail suggested that when buying corn, look for husks that are reasonably dark green, full and round cobs, and kernels that go all the way to the top of the cob.
He also said to check that the tassels were golden brown. This was another sign that the kernels had matured. Each of the little tassels or silks connects to an individual kernel, and this is how they are pollinated.
“We encourage Kiwis to buy a rainbow of vegetables and corn, which is an easy and tasty way to get more colours into your diet. Corn is packed with antioxidants and great for gut health,” said Carmel Ireland from 5 + A Day.
“It's a good source of fibre, folate and vitamin C. It's an easy way to add one more vegetable into your diet, especially as it gets the family seal of approval.”
LeaderBrand sweet corn grown in Gisborne will be available in local supermarkets this week.
