Research project Aroma-roots : aromatic root crops for the bio-economy

General introduction

Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana), angelica (Angelica archangelica) and lovage (Levisticum officinale) are three aromatic root crops. Both the fresh plant material and the extracted aromas of these crops can be incorporated into numerous (non)-food applications. However, only a few pioneers are currently active in growing these crops in Belgium. These pioneers indicate that there are still quite a few bottlenecks in the technical area of cultivation that hamper area expansion. Besides a solution for these bottlenecks, the pioneers also want more clarity about the sales possibilities and are looking for new crops that fit within their cultivation rotation. The Aroma-roots project aims to stimulate the cultivation of horseradish, angelica and lovage in Flanders.

Research approach

We optimize the cultivation of horseradish, angelica and lovage through better varietal knowledge, cultivation mechanization (including weed control, sowing and harvesting), increasing the quality of the harvested biomass and multi-valorization. Besides acreage expansion, the focus is also on a profitable chain between farmer, processor and consumer.

Relevance/Valorization

The project consortium aims at crop diversification at arable farms with valorization of the biomass toward food and beverage applications, crop protection, cosmetics and green chemistry.

Financing

VLAIO