Eat Brussel Sprouts Day is observed every year on January 31 every year. These green superfoods have health benefits and can put you on the path to a healthier lifestyle. They are mostly grown in the United States and Europe. There are several Brussels sprouts recipes out there which may help you to cook Brussels sprouts on your own.
History of Eat Brussel Sprouts Day
Brussels sprouts are part of the Gemmifera group of cabbages, which are cultivated particularly for their edible buds.
During the 5th century, Brussels sprouts were first discovered in the northern European region. The first written mention of Brussels sprouts was found in 1587.
Similarly, they had a huge popularity in the southern Netherlands and eventually northern Europe during the 16th century.
Moreover, French settlers brought Brussels sprouts to Louisiana in the late century. This marked the start of the production of this crop. Likewise, Brussels sprouts became a widely cultivated commercial crop in the early 1900s in California.
Today, U.S.A. cultivated more than 32000 tons of Brussels sprouts. Besides the U.S.A., Europe also produces a good amount of Brussels sprouts, around 82,000 tons, in the Netherlands alone.
Though Brussels sprouts offer several health benefits, many people find them extremely bitter and steer clear of them.
This is due to the TAS2R38 gene, which was discovered in 1930 and controls whether we taste the chemical P.T.C. This chemical makes the taste of bitterness.
Although this chemical is not found in our typical diet, it is found in sprouts and some other foods. People with the gene that detects this chemical often find Brussels sprouts bitter and struggle to develop a taste for them.
If you have not tried Brussels sprouts yet, you can try this on this occasion and if you don’t find them very bitter, you can incorporate them into your diet to lead a better, healthier lifestyle
Also read, National Lobster Thermidor Day – January 24, 2025
Timeline of Eat Brussel Sprouts Day
| 16th Century (Brussels Sprouts Get Their Name) | Brussels sprouts are named as such when they are cultivated in the city, of Brussels. |
| 1940s (Colorful Purple Sprouts) | Colourful purple sprouts are developed as a result of purple cabbage and normal Brussels sprout hybrid. |
| 2008 (Brussels Sprouts Record) | Linus Urbanect makes a meal of 31 Brussels sprouts in 60 seconds. |
| 2013 (A Merry Christmas) | Brussels sprouts supply enough power to light up a Christmas tree on London’s Southbank. |
Six Interesting Facts About Brussels Sprouts
- Sprout Energy: Brussels Sprouts give high energy. After eating a serving we’re all very energetic. 90 grams of sprouts offer a staggering 158 kJ of energy, which is around 44 watts per hour!
- Longest & Heaviest Brussels Sprouts: In 1992, the heaviest sprout was crowned which was weighed in at a jaw-dropping 18lb 3oz (8.3kg)! Similarly, in 2000, U.S couple, a U.S. couple grew a sprouting plant that measured in at an astounding 9’ 3” – that’s 2.8 meters!
- Brussels Sprout World Records: In 2008, a Swedish man called Linus Urbanec achieved the stomach-churning record of consuming 31 sprouts in 60 seconds! He earned the title of “the most sprouts consumed in 1 minute” by skewering and swallowing individually.
- May help maintain healthy blood sugar levels: Due to their impressive nutrient profile and long list of health benefits, Brussels sprouts may help in keeping blood sugar levels steady. Many studies have shown that increased intake of cruciferous vegetables, including Brussels sprouts, to a decreased risk of diabetes.
- Mini cabbages: Brussels sprouts look like mini cabbages as it is belong to the same cruciferous vegetable family.
- Easy to add to your diet: Brussels sprouts are a healthy addition to any diet and can be easily incorporated into side dishes and entrees. People love the roasted, boiled, sauteed, or baked. For a simple side dish, start by cutting the ends of the Brussels sprouts. Mix the sprouts with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and then roast them on a baking sheet until they’re crispy.
Frequently Ask Question
When did Brussels sprouts originate?
Brussels sprouts were first found in northern Europe during the 5th century, with the first written reference dating back to 1587.
Where are Brussels sprouts primarily grown in the U.S.?
California is the primary state for the commercial production of Brussels sprouts in the United States.
Can you eat Brussels sprouts every day?
Yes, Brussels sprouts can be eaten daily in moderation, as they are rich in antioxidants and beneficial nutrients. However, dietary changes should be discussed with a doctor.
Are Brussels sprouts safe to eat raw?
Yes, Brussels sprouts can be consumed raw and are nutritious in various forms, including roasted, steamed, or boiled.
What makes Brussels sprouts taste bitter for some people?
The bitterness in Brussels sprouts is attributed to a chemical called P.T.C., which some people can taste due to the presence of the TAS2R38 gene.
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