Rocket, arugula, rucola: how genetics determines the health benefits and whether you like this leafy green.

[2greys]

Love it or hate it, rocket is popular all over the world. Also known as arugula, roquette and rucola, it’s known for its pungent and peppery flavours. It might look like an unassuming leafy vegetable, but the reasons for its taste, health benefits and whether we like it all comes down to genetics.

Rocket actually encompasses several species, all of them part of the same family as broccoli, cabbage, kale, mustard and watercress – the Brassicales. Its distinctive aroma and flavours are created by chemical compounds produced by its leaves, called isothiocyanates. Some of these compounds can be eye-wateringly hot, whereas others can have a radishy flavour – or none at all.

theconversation.com/rocket-...

[RoadRunner44]

That was a really interesting read 2greys. I've passed the link on to family members. I will be keeping a record of it to use later on with my sustainability group.

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It grows like a weed in my veg trug now, self seeds, very hot and peppery but I like it You can grow and eat this leaf nearly all year. A good one to grow

Lots of health benefits medicalnewstoday.com/articl...