Beets

Beta vulgaris is said to have originated in Europe and North Africa. According to DeCandolle, the aboriginal slender-rooted species is found in sandy soil, and especially near the sea, throughout southern Europe, and on nearly all the coasts of the Mediterranean. It also occurs as far eastward as the Caspian Sea and Persia. Everything shows that its cultivation does not date from more than two or three centuries before the Christian era. It is now highly improved, principally in the one direction of large and succulent roots.

Source: “Fruit and Vegetable Facts and Pointers: Beets”, United Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Association

Contents

Fun FactsSeasonNutritionStatistics

Season

Beets are avialable year-round.

Ripeness

Buy smooth, firm well-shaped yet slender beets with a good deep rich red color. Small- to medium-sized beets may have the best flavor. Avoid soft, spongy, rough and shriveled beets as well as those with bruises. If beets have tops, they should be fresh looking and not shriveled.

Storage

Remove tops and store with greens. Refrigerate beets in a plastic bag.

Beets are a good source of folate.