Lotte Mart to sell CA-stored garlic scapes from Namhae beyond peak season

Lotte Mart announced it will begin selling "CA-stored Namhae garlic scapes (300g)," a product preserved using controlled-atmosphere (CA) storage technology, starting Tuesday.

CA storage technology optimally regulates oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations, temperature and humidity inside storage facilities to minimize moisture loss, preserving the freshness and texture of produce for an extended period after harvest. Lotte's Fresh Quality Innovation Center operates CA storage facilities with a capacity of more than 1,000 tons.

The garlic scapes going on sale in July were placed into CA storage in mid-June. Lotte Mart and Super will supply five tons of CA-stored garlic scapes through mid-July. Garlic scapes are a seasonal vegetable typically harvested from April through mid-May, making fresh supplies difficult to find once the season ends.

"Through CA storage technology, customers will be able to enjoy the freshness and crisp texture of Namhae garlic scapes," said Kim Si-eun, a merchandise developer on the vegetable team at Lotte Mart and Super. "We hope shoppers will keep reaching for garlic scapes for a longer period."