About Tenderstem
Tenderstem broccoli has become Britain's favourite premium vegetable since its introduction to the UK market, representing a Japanese innovation in designer vegetables. Developed by Sakata Seed Corporation in the early 1990s, this natural hybrid combines traditional broccoli (calabrese) with Chinese kale (gai lan) to create a uniquely tender, sweet, and versatile vegetable that cooks in minutes. The creation of Tenderstem took eight years of careful breeding by Sakata specialists in Yokohama, Japan—achieved through traditional plant breeding rather than genetic modification. The result is a vegetable with florets like broccoli but with longer, thinner, completely edible stems that offer a sweeter, more delicate flavour than conventional broccoli. Every part is edible, from tip to stem, minimising waste. In the UK, Tenderstem is a registered trademark of Sakata UK Limited, based in Boston, Lincolnshire. The brand has seen remarkable success—21% sales growth demonstrates British consumers' appreciation for this premium vegetable. Internationally, the same variety is sold as Bimi in Europe and Broccolini in other markets, with brand specialist Coregeo managing its global expansion. UK shoppers can find Tenderstem at Tesco in both fresh and frozen formats, including organic options and the distinctive Purple Tenderstem variety. Whether stir-fried, steamed, or roasted, Tenderstem offers restaurant-quality results at home. Grocefully helps you compare prices on this popular premium vegetable across UK supermarkets.

