Asda has introduced a new tomato variety, named Goutini, which is being introduced commercially this summer in the UK after a four-year trial process.
According to the retailer the tomato has been grown in Southport, with Asda’s tomatoes experts spending over 500 hours perfecting the new variety to ensure the best quality, sweetest fruit possible.
Resembling a Beefsteak tomato, the Goutini contains the highest amount of natural sugar for a tomato this size, Asda noted – a regular Beefsteak tomato has a natural sugar level of 3.5 per cent, whereas the Goutini contains twice that – a level which is usually only possible in small, salad tomatoes.
Grown in carefully-moderated conditions created to mirror the conditions of warmer European climates, including sunlight regulation and humidity control, the Goutini is said to have the perfect combination of the sweetness of salad tomatoes, combined with the versatility of the Beefsteak, making it 'unlike any other tomato on the market'.
“Currently, our best-selling tomato is a Piccolo Cherry, so we know our customers love sweet, juicy tomatoes,' explained Nasir Ahmed, Asda tomato technologist. 'The Goutini has the flavour of a sweet salad tomato, but it’s much bigger, so it’s perfect for any number of meals this summer.
“We work closely with our growers to ensure high-quality, locally-sourced produce is available year-round, shadowing the ripening and sweetening qualities of the Mediterranean sun right here in on local soil to create tasty fruit and veg for our customers.”
With 360 Goutini plants growing in glasshouses in Southport, Asda said the tomatoes were the perfect summer staple for those looking for quality, British tomatoes for any meal.
Andy Roe, Asda tomato grower: “Over the last four years, we’ve worked hard at finding the right seeds, cross-breeding varieties and testing various growth patterns and conditions to create a fruit that delivers on both quality and flavour – something we’ve succeeded in doing with the Goutini.
“With customers looking for sweet, British produce year-round, we’re excited to be trialling the Goutini throughout summer, and hope Brits enjoy the sweet, tender tomatoes set to make any barbecue complete,' Roe added.
The Goutini will be piloted in 17 Asda stores this summer for £1.20.
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