King Charles III is well-known for his passion for the environment, after creating an organic garden at Highgrove and an organic brand exclusively sold at Waitrose, Dutchy Organic. The King certainly suggested his forward-thinking views within The State Banquets menu.

His favour of ‘A selection of Chantenay Carrots’ as the official side dish for the evening gives a subtle nod to his personal love for the environment.

Martin Evans, Managing Director of Freshgrowers said “We are proud to hold our carbon-neutral status after working with Campbell-Gibbons Consulting, Intellync-Sustain and Carbon Neutral Britain, to reveal a carbon footprint of just 0.03 grams of CO2e per kilogram of Chantenay carrots. Having carrots officially approved by the King is the perfect way to end 2022.”

The menu, which was traditionally written in French, included three meticulously selected courses. Starting with grilled brill with wild mushrooms, truffles and sorrel sauce. Guests then enjoyed ballotine of Windsor pheasant filled with artichokes with quince compote and port sauce served with a selection of Chantenay carrots, Kale with Roasted Butternut Squash and braised fondant potatoes. The dessert was an iced vanilla parfait with caramelized apples.

The State Banquet menu suggests a lavish yet seasonal approach to dining, with traditional British produce being at the heart of the main course.  

Patrick O’Malley, Managing Director of Nationwide Produce PLC says “We struck a deal with Fresh Growers in 2022 to become their primary partner for non-retail sales of Chantenay carrots in UK and for export abroad. We supply Chantenay carrots into premium catering lines nationally and are proud to see The King enjoying the very best UK produce at his first State Banquet.” 

Chantenay carrots are officially approved by the King!