New Sweet French Pepper Hits Stores: No Bitterness, No Peeling!

Red, yellow, or green with a distinct square shape—these are the typical bell peppers found in the produce section, commonly grown varieties such as Lamuyo or derivatives of California Wonder. While their flesh is juicy and sweet, their thick skin can be tough to digest, not to mention the small seeds that scatter everywhere when slicing! It was these issues that motivated some French producers to seek a more convenient and appealing alternative. Among them is Adrien Quaak, president of the French producer group Kultive, known as the “king of bell peppers.” He grows about 9 hectares of bell peppers in the Loire Valley under greenhouse conditions designed for sustainability, with optimized water and energy management: “Some of the rainwater is collected and the materials of the greenhouses have been optimized to better capture the natural heat of the sun,” he explains. Yet, innovation doesn’t stop at techniques. The producer is also experimenting with new varieties that are more attractive to consumers. One such variety has already started gaining attention in the market.

“Ever since I tried it, I only buy this one!” a customer at Grand Frais shares. “The kids love it: it’s sweeter and has fewer seeds.” Another customer praises its simplicity in cooking: “I just cut it in half lengthwise and pop it in the oven at 392°F. In 15 minutes, it’s done!,” she describes. The bell pepper in question is the Sweet Palermo. Recently cultivated in the French greenhouses of Adrien Quaak, it stands out with its long, slender shape, almost resembling a chili pepper. However, it is remarkably mild, with no bitterness, confirms a producer from the Océane Cooperative near Nantes, where this variety is also grown. Another benefit is its exceptionally thin skin, which does not need to be peeled after cooking.

It can be enjoyed both raw and roasted, and its seeds, which are sparse, are clustered near the stem, greatly simplifying preparation. This bell pepper could well bring the whole family, including the kids, back to loving vegetables!