Jerusalem Artichoke Association of Canada launched

Jerusalem artichoke

A new commodity group was launched earlier this year when the Jerusalem Artichoke Association of Canada (JAAC) was incorporated.

Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosis) is a plant that’s native to Canada, known as topinambour in French. It’s also called sunchoke, sunroot and earth apple.

The stems and stock above ground can be used as forage, while the tubers that grow below ground can be cooked and eaten in a variety of ways. The tubers are one of the richest sources of the prebiotic inulin and this has stimulated interest by consumers looking to eat “gut healthy food.”

The JAAC is hoping to serve as a focal point for growers, processors, end users, and consumers who are looking to increase the visibility, consumption, and use of this native plant. More information and a registration form to join the JAAC can be obtained by e-mail at mail2jaac@gmail.com.