Family Bouden

Surface

100ha

Location

Nevele

Active since

2006

Products

In 2006, Wim Bouden founded his sprout nursery, Kiem-X, in Deinze. With just three Belgian companies growing sprouting vegetables, Kiem-X is a rare gem in the Flemish cultivation sector. Wim specialises in a colourful range, including alfalfa sprouts, beetroot shoots, red and pink radish sprouts, daikon sprouts and pea asparagus. Perfect for garnishing dishes and adding a fresh, playful touch.

Wim has a clear favourite: China rose, or pink radish. “They have that delicious radish flavour and stunning shades of yellow, orange and pink,” he says.

All sprouts are grown fully indoors and in the dark. “People often think we grow them in greenhouses, but that’s not the case,” Wim explains. “These are freshly germinated seeds that can’t yet perform photosynthesis.”

Kiem-X is a small-scale operation, with around seven full-time staff. That calls for expertise, flexibility, and a strong sense of responsibility. Efficiency is their biggest strength: the workday starts as early as 5:30 a.m., and by 8 o’clock they’re often already on their way to BelOrta. A lot needs to happen in just a few hours – staying ahead of the game is key.

Our company is too big for 50 weeks a year, and too small for 2.

Wim Bouden

Sprout cultivation also requires plenty of adaptability, as each harvest brings new challenges. “No two harvests are the same,” says Wim. Seed quality varies year by year, so you need to keep adjusting and fine-tuning. And then there’s the peak right before Christmas: “Our company is too big for 50 weeks a year, and too small for 2,” Wim says with a laugh.

Wim is a vegetarian and attaches great importance to a plant-based lifestyle. Did you know you can make amazing meals using only plant-based ingredients? Even going vegetarian just one day a week can make a real difference – not only for your health but also for the planet.