Broccoli takes centre stage as India's next superfood for better health
A recent conference in Mumbai shone a spotlight on broccoli as a key ingredient for healthier diets in India. The Broccoli Consumption Conference brought together chefs, nutritionists, and sports personalities to discuss the vegetable's rising popularity and its role in preventive nutrition. Organisers also stressed the need for more resilient food systems across the country.
The event featured talks from high-profile figures, including celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor, who highlighted how broccoli is gaining acceptance in Indian kitchens. He showcased its versatility in local dishes, moving beyond its traditional Western uses. Meanwhile, nutritionist Claudia Ciesla reinforced the importance of whole foods, explaining how broccoli can help combat lifestyle diseases like diabetes and heart health conditions.
A Broccoli Cooking Contest took centre stage, demonstrating creative ways to incorporate the vegetable into Indian, Asian, and continental healthy recipes. Attendees sampled dishes that blended broccoli with familiar flavours, making it more appealing to everyday cooks.
Former cricket captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth drew parallels between sports and nutrition, urging people to adopt healthier eating habits. He compared disciplined training to mindful food choices, arguing that both contribute to long-term well-being.
The conference also addressed broccoli's growing availability in India. Expanded cultivation in cooler regions such as Himachal Pradesh and Karnataka has boosted supply. Improved farming techniques and better cold storage have kept prices stable or even reduced them slightly. While urban demand for the vegetable is rising, it remains far less common in rural areas compared to traditional greens.
Organisers tied the discussions to broader national and global goals. The event supported initiatives like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, emphasising the link between nutrition, health, and sustainability.
The Mumbai conference highlighted broccoli's potential to improve diets and strengthen food security in India. With increased production and falling costs, the vegetable is becoming more accessible in cities. The push for healthier eating now aligns with wider efforts to build sustainable and resilient food systems nationwide.
