4815 Watercress

"Nature's peppery delight."

A peppery-tasting, nutrient-rich leafy green vegetable, watercress is a popular ingredient in salads, sandwiches, and soups.

Also known as: Nasturtium officinale, Nasurtium, Broad-leaved Cress

Botanical name: Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum

Watercress illustration

Quick Facts

PLU Code

4815 (4-digit conventional)

Category & Size

VegetablesWatercressAll Sizes

Origin

Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, now widely cultivated in many countries.

Storage Temperature

0-5°C (32-41°F)

Shelf Life

1-3 days

Status

Approved

About Watercress

Watercress is part of the Brassicaceae family, rich in vitamins A, C and K, and is considered one of the healthiest leafy greens.

Nutrition Information

Watercress is low in calories, rich in water content, and a good source of vitamins and minerals. It is high in vitamins A, C, and K. Here are the approximate nutrition facts for 100 grams of watercress:

Energy: 16 kcal

Protein: 2.3 grams

Fat: 0.6 gram

Carbohydrates: 2.3 grams

Fiber: 1.8 grams

Water content: 95.3 grams

Sodium: 89 milligrams

Potassium: 382 milligrams

Vitamin A: 206 micrograms

Vitamin C: 50.4 milligrams

Vitamin K: 57 micrograms

Folate: 29 micrograms

Iron: 1.1 milligrams

Calcium: 60 milligrams

Phosphorus: 51 milligrams

Storage & Handling

Watercress should be kept cold and humid to maintain its quality. Temperatures between 0-5°C (32-41°F) and relative humidity between 80-100% are ideal.

Optimal Storage Conditions:
Temperature: 0-5°C (32-41°F)
Humidity: 80-100%
Packaging: Ventilated or perforated packaging
Shelf Life: 1-3 days
Storage Notes: Keep watercress away from strong-smelling fruits as it can absorb odors easily. Avoid wetting the leaves to prevent spoilage and decay.

Search PLU Codes

Tags
4815WatercressAll SizesVegetablesWatercressApproved
Commodity Details
Commodity Key:
watercress
Variety:
Created:
December 1999
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).