Scientists at Horticulture Research International (HRI) have shown that the amount of pesticide used to treat fungal diseases in sprouts can be greatly reduced using disease-forecasting systems. Air-borne fungal spores cause diseases that often become visible long after infection, by which time spraying may not be effective. By monitoring levels of spores in the air, the weather, and other factors influencing infection, DEFRA funded research has shown that growers need spray only when infection first occurs, preventing damage to the produce and keeping consumers happy.

Meanwhile not only are sprouts being produced using smaller amounts of chemicals, thus protecting the environment, but scientists at the Institute of Food Research (IFR) confirm they are good for us too. Sprouts contain a chemical called sinigrin (responsible for the distinctive, slightly bitter, sprout flavour) which, when it breaks down, suppresses the development of pre-cancerous cells, persuading them to commit suicide. So powerful is this effect that the occasional meal of sprouts could destroy pre-cancerous cells in the colon.

Peter Rogers, editor of the trade journal the Grower, is a big fan of the British sprout. "Christmas dinner just wouldn’t be the same without sprouts" he said today. "And it is now clear that UK growers can produce the best quality sprouts for us all to enjoy". So, tuck in, and enjoy your sprouts this Christmas. Today’s sprouts retain their distinctive flavour but are slightly sweeter than of old. And due to modern growing systems they are good for both you and the British countryside.

• Horticulture Research International is the primary UK organisation tasked with carrying out horticultural research and development and transferring the results to the UK horticultural industry. HRI is in the public sector, reporting to DEFRA, its Sponsor Department, but aims increasingly to fund its activities from commercial sources.
  
• The mission of the institute of Food Research is to carry out independent basic, and strategic research on food safety, quality, nutrition and health. It is a company limited by guarantee, with charitable status, grant aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC). www.ifr.ac.uk 
  
• The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) funds horticultural research to meet its aim, which is to encourage sustainable farming, thriving economies and communities in rural areas and a better environment for all. www.defra.gov.uk 

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