3394 Asparagus

"A delicate, nutritious delight for discerning palates"

A delicious and nutritious purple-hued variety of Asparagus, typically sold in bunches and prized for its delicate flavor and crunchy texture.

Also known as: Purple Asparagus, Violet Asparagus, Purple Spear

Botanical name: Asparagus officinalis

Asparagus illustration

Quick Facts

PLU Code

3394 (4-digit conventional)

Category & Size

VegetablesAsparagusAll Sizes

Origin

Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas

Storage Temperature

0-3°C (32-37°F)

Shelf Life

7-14 days

Status

Approved

About Asparagus

As a member of the lily family, Asparagus officinalis is native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. The vegetable is a rich source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and fiber.

Nutrition Information

Asparagus is low in calories and rich in nutrients. One 100-gram serving of cooked asparagus contains approximately 20 calories, 2.9 grams of carbohydrates, 0.9 grams of protein, and 0.2 grams of fat. It is also rich in fiber, containing about 2.1 grams per 100 grams.

It is a good source of essential vitamins such as vitamin C, containing around 30 milligrams per 100 grams, and vitamin K, containing around 70 micrograms per 100 grams. It also provides folate, containing around 60 micrograms per 100 grams.

Asparagus is also a good source of minerals, containing 0.2 milligrams of manganese, 0.2 milligrams of copper, and 280 milligrams of potassium per 100 grams. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of various polyphenolic compounds.

Storage & Handling

Maintain high humidity and low temperature for longer shelf life. Monitor for ethylene production and CO2 accumulation, and maintain proper air circulation to prevent moisture buildup.

Optimal Storage Conditions:
Temperature: 0-3°C (32-37°F)
Humidity: 90-95%
Packaging: Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP), breathable packaging to prevent moisture accumulation
Shelf Life: 7-14 days
Storage Notes: Pre-cooling and rapid pre-cooling (e.g., hydro-cooling) can help maintain high quality and extend shelf life. Monitor for signs of mold, rot, and wilt.

Search PLU Codes

Tags
3394AsparagusAsparagus officinalisAll SizesVegetablesAsparagusApproved
Commodity Details
Commodity Key:
asparagus
Variety:
Purple - Bunch
Created:
October 2002
Last Updated:
December 2023
PLU Code Reference

4-digit codes: Conventionally grown produce

5-digit codes starting with 9: Organic produce

5-digit codes starting with 8: Originally intended for GMO (rarely used)


PLU codes streamline checkout processes, improve inventory management, and provide consistency across different stores. The system was developed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS).