Van kas naar keuken
Above all else, a tomato needs to be tasty. Although people frequently assume that it’s the sun that determines the flavour and texture of tomatoes, DNA is much more important and has as much as a 70 per cent influence on how a tomato tastes. The quest for innovative and flavourful tomato varieties is one of Stoffels’ key focuses. The way in which we grow, plus the use of organic soil, makes a world of difference when it comes to growing a tasty tomato. Here too, Stoffels is resolved to follow a different path to growers working with conventional hydroponics.
Many people mistakenly believe that they can only buy local by getting vegetables straight from a local farmer – but even without a farm shop, Stoffels can still get fresh produce to consumers daily. Paul Stoffels’ and Petra Veldman’s business has evolved from being just a producer to a business that actively seeks out its own selling market. They endeavour to inspire retail, speciality shops, restaurants and end consumers with innovative concepts, new varieties of tomato and refreshing ideas for how to use tomatoes in the kitchen.
This conscious shortening of the chain is a disruptive force within the industry. Stoffels chose to walk away from the rather archaic system of sending horticultural products to auction, cooperatives, intermediaries and transporters to get products onto shop shelves. Now, a tomato harvested in the morning will be with fresh suppliers the very same day. Those suppliers in turn see to it that the product reaches its destination the next day, still crisp and fresh. Some retailers, speciality shops and restaurants even receive deliveries directly, thus helping to enhance the freshness and quality. This way, the environmental impact is immediately perceptible. A significant proportion of Stoffels’ sales is still close to home.
These efforts do not go unnoticed. An increasing number of chefs are deliberately opting to work with tomatoes from Stoffels because of their quality, flavour and innovative nature. Some examples include (star) restaurants like Nage, De Wingerd, The Jane, Bon Bon and La Belle. ‘As a chef, you’re always on the lookout for high-quality products. We’ve found the perfect partner in Stoffels Tomatoes. Crisp and fresh, consistently good flavour and new varieties to experiment with on a regular basis,’ explains Chef Jean-Philippe Vormezeele of The Jane. Stoffels is always on the lookout for chefs who are interested in joining the flavour team. Trialling new varieties of tomato offers a range of culinary possibilities. Interested in their product? The Stoffels sales team would be happy to contact your regular supplier. Follow Stoffels on Facebook and Instagram and stay up to date on the latest news and insights. Looking for Stoffels tomatoes on the shop shelves? You can find them at Colruyt, Okay, Spar, Carrefour, Hanos and Metro and better greengrocers.