ESS has partnered with Bloomkubes to introduce a hydroponic pod to grow micro cress and greens for its menu in the Northern Lights Lounge at Aberdeen International Airport.
The self-contained hydroponic unit, called a Kube, uses a system of soilless plant cultivation that delivers water, nutrients and oxygen to the plants. It will allow the lounge to grow a range of products which its chefs can use to enhance the flavour, aroma and presentation of dishes. Recipes specifically designed using the Kube will be offered as part of the menu.
Key benefits of the hydroponic pod are that it is pesticide free, with all products being grown in carefully controlled environments eliminating the need for chemical pesticides, and it saves water as the Kubes recycle approximately 90-95% of their water compared to conventional farms.
The approach also cuts out delivery mileage and plastic packaging as the products are grown on the premises.
The units are remotely managed by Bloomkubes, an agritech company that has developed a range of self-contained farm to fork hydroponic units. The micro cress and greens being grown in the units have been developed by Koppert Cress.
Ronnie Kelman, Business Director for ESS, commented:
“We’re thrilled to be working with Bloomkubes to introduce hydroponics technology at Aberdeen International Airport. Growing fresh ingredients on-site in an environmentally friendly way is a great opportunity for us to deliver on the ‘Healthier Food’ and ‘Healthier World’ pledges we make to our customers, clients and colleagues as part of our Wellness Commitment. We hope our customers at the airport will enjoy seeing the products in a variety of dishes served in the Northern Lights Lounge.”
Jemma Cumming, Commercial Manager at Aberdeen International Airport, commented:
“Our lounge has already won a number of awards for its partnership with local suppliers and we look forward to enhancing the menu with products from the Kube. This is an exciting new project for us and passengers will be able to see the pod up close when they visit the lounge.”
