The Meerle research centre in Belgium is carrying out extensive tests with a view to growing cuore di bue tomatoes according to Flandria standards. The results will determine whether this old-fashioned tomato variety is grown commercially, starting in 2005.
Cuore di bue - which literally means ox heart - is the Italian name for a variety of tomato that is also called beef tomato. Cuore di bue tomatoes are usually associated with traditional Italian and Spanish cuisine, and are exclusively used in Mediterranean-style salads dressed with olive oil. There has also been growing demand for this variety on the French market.
In consultation with the LAVA auctions, the Noorderkempen experimental nursery in Meerle, has a test area of 400 sqm this year. Researchers will be investigating whether it might be practicable for the Belgian glasshouse horticulture sector to grow this variety commercially to Flandria quality mark standards, which relate to both environmentally sound cultivation practices and quality.
Technical and commercial results will be evaluated in the autumn. If the results turn out well, commercial production can start in 2005. One option being considered is to introduce another segment for new varieties and niche products within the Flandria tomato range. Cuore di bue tomatoes would be bracketed in this new segment.
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