Garlic: As a flexible ingredient, Garlic promises some major health benefits. Since garlic contains the compound allicin, it provides enough antioxidants to help prevent cancer and heart disease and lower blood pressure. Many nutritionists also claim garlic accelerates hair growth, combats acne, and boosts the immune system. Offshore catering companies should look into using garlic in milk-based recipes to reduce its odour.
Onions: Like many others on this list, onions contain both anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory chemicals that may allay swelling caused by arthritis and reduce brittleness by osteoporosis.
Potatoes: Although available in many different colours, only unskinned white potatoes satisfy nearly half of one’s daily vitamin C and B, potassium, and fiber dietary requirements. As well, they are relatively low in calories and offer a small dose of magnesium and protein. Potatoes left to cool become more starch resistant, which is something offshore caterers should keep in mind.
Pears: Similar to the potato, a pear’s skin contains many essential nutrients like vitamin C and fiber. This fruit is also considered highly anti-inflammatory.
Bananas: The peel may be yellow, but a banana’s interior is white. As many seafarers already know, bananas are incredibly high in potassium, which helps the body absorb calcium. These are very easy to store onboard merchant vessels and can be eaten raw, mashed, or cooked.
Others: To top this list, offshore caterers may also wish to stock celeriac, turnips, fennels, leeks, taros, and endives.
