UK salad companies HumberVHB and Westland Nurseries were the recipients of a Fresh Ideas award at the International Food Exhibition 2007 (IFE07).

The companies’ Microgreens product was recognised by judges as one of the most innovative items showcased at the event, which was held this week at London’s Docklands ExCel centre.

This is the second award in quick succession for the companies, after Westland Nurseries also picked up the Salad Grower of the Year award last month.

IFE’s search for winners began in November 2006, when 260 entries were whittled down to 68 in preparation for the final day of judging in February 2007, when the final 13 products across a range of food categories were chosen.

“With great flavours and colours, Microgreens offers retail consumers the opportunity to buy a quality product,” said a statement from the judges.

“We are very proud to have won this award,” HumberVHB product manager James Seymour, said. “The microgreens are a growing side of our business.”

Containing higher concentrations of phytochemicals than their larger brethren, Microgreens fall nicely into the superfoods category.

The firm also received Soil Association accreditation last week for its organic pot herbs and is exploring environmental packaging options.

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