Waitrose has become the first UK supermarket to offer British-grown samphire year-round. Following a partnership with grower Westlands, the supermarket giant will now have continuous domestic production of the sea vegetable.
Year-Round Availability
Traditionally, British samphire has been available only during a 12-week summer season. The launch marks a significant development for the fresh produce sector, extending accessibility beyond the traditional window. Waitrose said the initiative supports UK growers, strengthens domestic supply, and reduces reliance on imported produce.
How It's Grown
Westlands uses glasshouses with hydroponic systems, LED lighting, and saline nutrient solutions that replicate the crop's natural coastal environment. This controlled growing allows consistent quality and extended production. The project also prioritises sustainability: Westlands has a solar farm on its packhouse roof and uses a combined heat pump to power lighting. Water consumption is reduced through hydroponic cultivation, with 85% of water recycled.
Will Boers, Westlands Director, said: "Our biggest sustainability success has been recycling water. When you grow samphire hydroponically, you can collect the run-off water to recycle, which you can't do when you grow it on the ground."
Nutritional Benefits
Dr Joanne Lunn, Lead Nutritionist at Waitrose, said: "Samphire is a great source of calcium and fibre - which are vital for a healthy metabolism. Because it's naturally rich in coastal minerals, it's a brilliant way to add intense flavour and texture to your plate without having to reach for the salt shaker."
Customer Demand
In recent years, interest in samphire has grown alongside demand for British produce and ingredients with strong nutritional credentials. Samphire is known for its distinctive salty flavour and crunch, often paired with seafood, salads, and pasta dishes.
Tracey May, Fresh Prepared Produce Buyer at Waitrose, said: "Traditionally, British samphire has been a fleeting summer delicacy with just a 12-week window. We know how much our customers value British produce, so we're thrilled to break that barrier. By becoming the first retailer to offer this, we're delivering that premium, peak-season British quality to our shelves all year round."
