Seminis red pepper

Weinberger used a red pepper to serve one cocktail

Vegetable producers could see a new market open to them, if an innovative alcoholic drinks range using fresh produce takes off.

Carrot, beetroot and sweet potatoes feature in an eclectic range of vegetable-based cocktails created by a top mixologist, trade magazine Harpers reported.

Thomas Weinberger unveiled his new range at ProWein trade fair in the German city of Düsseldorf last week.

The magazine said the move was part of a growing trend of top cocktail makers across the world using more fresh ingredients, in place of traditional syrups or mixes.

One example of his unusual creations included French Sweet Pepper – a cognac-based drink served inside a hollowed-out red pepper, the magazine reported.

“You always have to try to be a step ahead of others,” Weinberger told Harpers.

Weinberger’s stand at the exhibition was reportedly packed over the full three days, which the magazine said was a sign that consumers have a growing preference for unique and healthy cocktails.