Shoppers can now enjoy a rare British-grown vegetable all year round thanks to specialist technology.
Waitrose has become the first UK supermarket to achieve year-round availability of the popular sea vegetable, samphire, by using specialist glasshouse technology and a partnership with British producer Westlands.
The breakthrough ends samphire’s traditional 12-week summer window, offering customers a consistent supply of the "salty-sweet" vegetable even in the middle of winter.
How can you use samphire in dishes?
Tracey May, fresh prepared produce buyer at Waitrose, said: "Traditionally, British samphire has been a fleeting summer delicacy with just a 12-week window.
"We know how much our customers value British produce, so we’re thrilled to break that barrier.
"By becoming the first retailer to offer this, we’re delivering that premium, peak-season British quality to our shelves all year round."
Samphire, known for its crunchy texture and savoury flavour, is typically served with seafood and has become increasingly popular with home cooks looking to recreate restaurant-style dishes.
Until now, supermarkets have relied on imports once the short British season ended.
Waitrose says the new growing system will help reduce reliance on imported produce while maintaining year-round availability.
Hannah Stewart, produce technical manager at Waitrose, said: "It’s a massive UK first, ensuring a reliable, continuous supply of that signature salty-sweet crunch, even in the depths of January."
Westlands uses hydroponic technology and controlled glasshouse environments to replicate the natural conditions in which samphire thrives.
LED lighting mimics sunlight, while saline-rich water systems deliver the distinctive coastal flavour.
The approach is not just about flavour and availability—there are environmental benefits too.
Westlands recycles around 85 per cent of the water used in growing samphire through collection, filtration and reuse.
The producer has also invested in renewable energy projects, including rooftop solar panels used to help power the specialist lighting systems.
Paul Gamble, senior development chef at Waitrose, said: "Our obsession with rich, umami flavours is huge right now, and sea vegetables are right at the centre of that.
"Samphire has evolved from a niche foodie secret to an absolute staple on the British dinner table."
Mr Gamble also praised samphire’s versatility in the kitchen.
He said: "It’s incredibly versatile—beyond fresh fish and seafood, it adds a brilliant, vibrant pop to summery salads and pasta dishes.
"I love popping it on the barbecue for a smoky edge—simply toss in oil, black pepper and cook in a heatproof pan until tender, then finish with lemon juice."
Although traditionally paired with fish, samphire is finding its way into a growing range of dishes, from salads and pasta to grilled recipes.
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Waitrose also notes that the vegetable is a source of calcium and fibre, with naturally occurring minerals from its saline environment.
The move is the latest in a series of efforts by retailers and growers to cut food miles and increase the availability of British produce throughout the year.
Will you be buying samphire from Waitrose? Let us know in the comments below.
