Japanese demand for pea-based snack foods, confectionary and even a sweet jam is driving the highest value sector of the pulse market, paying premiums of up to £80/t more than standard pea prices.

Japanese demand for pea-based snack foods, confectionary and even a sweet jam is driving the highest value sector of the pulse market, paying premiums of up to £80/t more than standard pea prices.

Markets for similar uses in Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, along with and the immense potential of 1.3 billion consumers in China, have proven more volatile - with demand fluctuating from 10,000 to 25,000 tonnes a year.

Synenta's Bruce McKenzie reported competition for the high value markets from Canada, Australia and some other European producers. “But the UK has the greatest reputation in the market place for the quality and consistency of exported peas, and is in the prime position to take advantage of increasing demand.”

Closer to home, demand for grocery grade marrowfat peas - either packeted dry or as mushy peas - still consumes 10,000 tonnes a year, commanding a premium of £60/t, with 25,000 tonnes being canned and at a premium of around £40/t.

“Peas are an ideal staple food for increasingly health conscious consumers,” added Mr McKenzie. “The industry has to support initiatives to find alternative convenience options that appeal to modern lifestyles, and growers must supply the quality that will fulfill markets ahead of other global producers