Rudakovo OJSC has started growing arugula

February 1, Vitebsk / Olga Bogacheva - BELTA /. Rudakovo OJSC was the first greenhouse farm in the Vitebsk region to start growing arugula, Raisa Krupаtina, head of the enterprise's greenhouse complex, told a BELTA correspondent. According to her, the currently fashionable aphrodisiac salad, widely used in Mediterranean cuisine and a popular dish in the menus of top restaurants, is grown in batches of 1,000 pieces, currently only for the regional center's retail chain. As demand for the crop grows, its production volume is planned to increase. The cultivation of arugula and basil began at the Rudakovo greenhouse farm this year. The share of these crops is still small - 1% each. According to the interviewee, this is due to the established traditions in the dietary culture of Belarusians, where lettuce, dill, and parsley firmly hold the leading positions. Demand for the latter remains stable throughout the year. At the same time, Raisa Krupаtina is confident that the vitamin value of the exotic salad will also attract attention. Arugula is rich in vitamin C and iodine, increases hemoglobin levels in the blood, removes cholesterol, has a toning effect on the body, and positively affects metabolism. In addition, the first 2 tons of Rudakovo cucumbers of the year have already been supplied to the region's retail chain, and tomatoes are expected at the end of March - beginning of April, added the head of the greenhouse complex. Rudakovo OJSC specializes in vegetable growing and dairy farming. In terms of production, 54% is accounted for by protected ground vegetables and greens, about 25% by milk, and 21% by the production of meat, grain, and open ground vegetables. In 2009, the greenhouse farm produced products worth Br14.3 billion, or 5.7 thousand tons, which is 13.1% more than in 2008. In total, the enterprise produced products worth Br28.5 billion last year, which is 108.5% of the 2008 level. The number of employees is over 620 people. Arugula has a pronounced aroma and a sharp mustard-nutty flavor. Due to its beneficial properties, it is considered an effective weight loss agent, is used as a spice for salads and meat dishes, and is used in vegetable canning. -0-