Tasmanian-based commercial wasabi farm Shima Wasabi has revamped its online store as it promotes the virtues of genuine wasabi.
The wasabi plant traditionally grows along stream beds in mountain rivers of Japan. Tasmania’s cool climate makes it ideal to grow wasabi all year round. Wasabi contains antioxidants and allyl isothiocyanates, with some research indicating that wasabi may possess antimicrobial, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic and antiviral qualities.
Shima Wasabi’s farmer Esme Atkinson says most wasabi across the world contains little to none of the plant’s namesake.
“What is usually passed off as wasabi is in fact, horseradish with sugar, salt, green food colouring and other artificial additives. The real thing is worlds apart.”
The rebuilt e-store will sell fresh wasabi stems and leaves with jars of paste and powder. The brand says its products are sought after by chefs, restaurants, mixologists, and distilleries around Australia.
