Garlic Introduction

Garlic Introduction

 
Garlic (botanical name: Allium sativum) is a member of the onion family Alliaceae, which also includes onions, leeks, shallots, and chives. Garlic is one of the strongest-flavored members of this genus. It has been used as both food and medicine for thousands of years. Fresh garlic contains many nutrients, including phosphorus, potassium, calcium, protein, and vitamins B and C. Try using it daily to obtain the greatest health benefits.
 
Garlic is grown globally, but China is by far the largest producer, with approximately 10.5 million tonnes annually—accounting for over 77% of global output. Jinxiang, Jining, Shandong Province, is the world’s largest garlic planting and storage area. Jinxiang County is located in a temperate zone with gentle breezes and abundant sunshine. It has four distinct seasons, fertile soil, and adequate rainfall—factors that create ideal conditions for garlic growth. Jinxiang garlic is renowned worldwide for its characteristics: large size, white color, compact cloves, long storage life, and moderately pungent taste. In December 2009, Jinxiang Garlic was recognized by the European Union as a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). The annual export volume of garlic from Jinxiang accounts for over 70% of China’s total garlic exports, with Jinxiang producing more than 60 million tons of garlic each year.
 
Most of us use garlic, yet we know little about proper garlic storage. Garlic should be stored at approximately -3 to 0 degrees Celsius. However, most home refrigerators are too warm for optimal long-term garlic storage. Under good conditions, garlic can be stored for 6 to 12 months. Proper storage also helps retain the nutrients in the bulbs.
 
Please also note that there are two main varieties of garlic:
 
1. Normal White Garlic (with some purple stripes on the bulb skin);
2. Pure White Garlic (also called Snow White Garlic), which has no purple stripes on the skin.
 
There is a price difference between the two varieties—Pure White Garlic is usually more expensive than Normal White Garlic. Please let us know which variety you prefer.
 
Garlic prices are highly volatile. Please feel free to contact us for our latest and most competitive pricing.