"We haven't automated yet, as our system works best for the crops we're growing, but our R&D on strawberries has shown promising results. With a daily production capacity of 3 tons of lettuce at full scale, Bustanica focuses on leafy greens for now, sticking to manual processes to maintain flexibility," says Danish Hurzuk, Head of Business Development & Customer connections at Emirates Bustanica as he shows VerticalFarmDaily around the massive farming complex just 30 minutes outside Dubai's city center.
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Danish Hurzuk proudly presenting Bustanica's recently rebranded retail packaging
Each grow room is meticulously monitored, with nutrient dosing and water recycling systems designed to ensure optimal plant health and zero contamination. By a combination of using Oasis Growers Solutions substrate for propagation, an efficient nutrient dosing system, and Philips lights, the team can maintain a high level of control over every step of the growing process.
"Our germination rooms hold up to half a million plants at any given time," Danish adds. With 27 modular growing rooms, spanning 27,000 m² growing area across three levels, Bustanica replicates various climate zones to grow various crops including spinach, kale, parsley, edible flowers, and microgreens.
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Building the Bustanica Brand
Earlier this year, Emirates fully acquired Bustanica of which products are incorporated into in-flight meals. Bustanica's retail presence is growing rapidly, with its products available with all major retailers in over 200 plus stores across the UAE. Their commercial wing handles distribution to royal events and various hospitality clients, further expanding their footprint in the region.
"We rebranded in July to better communicate our message," Danish explains. "Our aim is to build a recognizable brand that resonates not just with airlines but with retail consumers as well."
Parsley as an exclusivity
"One of our standout innovations is the production of E. coli-free parsley, a product in high demand. According to Danish, parsley is a huge product. "Emirates hadn't served it on flights due to E. coli risks, but thanks to our production, it's now back on the menu in Arabic salads like tabbouleh." Unlike traditional methods that involve sanitizing parsley post-harvest, Bustanica's approach ensures that the parsley is free from contamination from the start.
This made Bustanica exclusively supply its E. coli-free parsley to Emirates and two major retailers. "It's a game-changer, as parsley typically requires high testing. Our method bypasses the need for sanitization, offering a cleaner, ready-to-eat product."
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From Seed to Seat
"What sets Bustanica apart is its direct connection to Emirates / Emirates flight caterings culinary program." Bustanica's produce has a 14-day shelf life, offering pest-free, no-waste leafy greens that are certified ready-to-eat. According to Danish, the product texture and flavor are enhanced at 30,000 feet, 'holding up beautifully under dressings'. While there are future plans to introduce more ready-to-eat salads, the current facility is designed solely for growing and supplying leafy greens.
On top of trying to farm as sustainable as possible, the Bustanica team has been working with a juice company to transform leftover lettuce stems into juice, and turn its pulp into crackers e.g., to make guarantee zero waste.
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Growth and Expansion in the Middle East market
Looking ahead, Bustanica has ambitious plans to expand. "The Middle East market is massive. Countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait are pushing for sustainability and local production, and the demand is huge. However, each market requires a customized solution. You can't just replicate what we've done here," Danish points out.
For more information:
Emirates Bustanica
Danish Hurzuk, Head of Business Development & Customer connections
[email protected]
https://bustanica.ae