Brassica Tea, developed by researchers at the US Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, has received much attention since it was launched as a test product in Colorado two weeks ago.
Brassica Tea contains the antioxidant SGS(TM) (sulforaphane) extracted from broccoli. Sulforaphane is the natural antioxidant found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables that, research claims, boost the body's own natural defence systems that inactivate free radicals. The popularity of the new product has meant that Brassica Protection Products has put direct orders on hold so that it can continue to supply stores in Colorado where the tea is being test-marketed on an exclusive basis.
In the meantime, Brassica is directing consumers to its flagship product, BroccoSprouts, which also delivers the natural detoxifier SGS. BroccoSprouts, available in fresh produce sections of supermarkets around the US, are three-day-old baby broccoli licensed and patented by Johns Hopkins. The company claims that eating just one ounce of BroccoSprouts delivers the same amount of sulforaphane as eating 1 1/4 pounds of adult broccoli. Drinking one cup of Brassica tea is equivalent to eating a three-ounce serving of broccoli.
"The interest in the tea has sparked a jump in BroccoSprouts sales. People who are unable to buy Brassica Tea are turning to Brassica's BroccoSprouts as a great alternative source of SGS,'' said Brassica President Tony Talalay.
"We are excited that consumers are realising the importance of sulforaphane and its ability to boost the body's own natural detoxification systems, whether it comes from Brassica Tea or BroccoSprouts,'' added Talalay.
The company added that it may take several months before Brassica Tea will be available nationwide because it takes significant time to grow the special seeds needed to produce and extract the SGS.