Räpi experimental farm conducts tests on the characteristics of plant varieties

There are around 1,000 parcels of land currently in use at Apetit’s Räpi experimental farm to study the differences between different varieties of plants used by Apetit, as well as new vegetables to add to the product range. Among the most interesting focuses of new research are broad beans and soybeans.

“With broad bean and soybean, our aim is to study the potential of growing new plant protein sources in our region,” says purchasing manager Timo Kaila.

In addition to exploring these new frontiers, Räpi farm is also active in studying the characteristics and cultivation requirements of other plants, such as different varieties of peas and carrots. Many of the 1,000 parcels of land in use at Räpi are devoted to sugar beet experiments carried out by Apetit for Sucros.

Apetit is set to launch organic products in shops this autumn. Räpi experimental farm is also taking steps related to organic farming. One block of the fields at the form has been assigned to organic farming.

“It takes about two years to get a field ready to be formally approved for organic cultivation. During this time, we are growing different varieties in this field to maintain good soil quality. Starting organic farming is a major process that takes a lot of work,” Kaila explains.

The results of the research at the Räpi experimental farm are used in developing the Apetit Responsible Farming method, which all of Apetit’s contract growers are committed to applying. The Responsible Farming method is used to manage, among other things, plant-specific cultivation instructions, quality and product safety. For example, plant protection measures are only employed when necessary and with due consideration. The Räpi experimental farm plays a key role in Apetit’s Responsible Farming method. Having been in operation for more than 60 years, Räpi is now one of only a few company-owned experimental farms in Finland.