Is Broccoli Man Made or Natural? Solved & Myth Debunked

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If you’re wondering, “is broccoli man made?”, the answer is yes, broccoli is man-made. But don’t panic. That doesn’t necessarily mean the vegetable originated in a laboratory.

In fact, broccoli isn’t even a recent invention. Read on to learn how ancient farmers used selective breeding to produce broccoli.

Debunking the Myth: Is Broccoli Man Made?

Contrary to the claims of some skeptics, broccoli is not a genetically modified or man-made vegetable. It is a naturally occurring plant that belongs to the same family as kale, cabbage, and cauliflower.

How Is Broccoli Made: Selective Breeding

Broccoli is a cultivated variety of the plant species Brassica oleracea, also known as wild cabbage or mustard. The cultivation of broccoli involves selective breeding to produce a plant with desirable traits, such as a large head of tightly clustered flower buds or florets.

The Beginning of Broccoli

Historians believe that the ancient Etruscans first cultivated wild cabbage over 2000 years ago. Farming in the Italian region now known as Tuscany, the Etruscans bred the earliest species of broccoli as well as other cruciferous vegetables.

Broccoli Health  Benefits

Broccoli is nutrient-dense and flavorful. It provides an excellent source of antioxidants, proteins, and fiber. Not to mention an abundance of vitamins and minerals.

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