Available at the Food Market on the Basement First Floor of the Main Building
Gwangju Shinsegae Co., Ltd. (CEO Lee Donghoon) announced on May 26 that it is introducing premium food ingredients for customers who are willing to spend for their health, as the "slow aging" trend has recently emerged.
Olive oil and balsamic vinegar, which are essential in diets aimed at slowing the aging process, are becoming increasingly popular despite their high prices.
An employee is presenting olive oil to a customer at the Food Market on the basement first floor of the main building at Gwangju Shinsegae. Photo by Gwangju Shinsegae
According to Gwangju Shinsegae, an analysis of grocery sales at the Food Market from January to April showed a significant growth rate of 52% compared to the same period last year.
In response to this demand, the grocery section on the basement first floor of the main building at Gwangju Shinsegae is offering a variety of olive oils, including nine types of premium oils.
Olive oil is known to help improve cardiovascular health, provide antioxidant effects, and regulate cholesterol levels in the blood. In particular, the practice of consuming a cup of olive oil every morning on an empty stomach to reduce inflammation has become a popular health trend, further boosting its popularity.
The most popular extra virgin olive oil is the organic extra virgin from "Finca Ratore," priced at 79,200 won (500ml). Another frequently purchased product, the "Chateau des Toublons" AOP olive oil, is priced at 125,100 won (500ml), which is higher than other regular products, but its sales volume is actually greater.
Extra virgin refers to olive oil obtained from the first pressing of olives, extracted in its natural state without chemical refining. It is characterized by a strong grassy aroma, a bitter taste, and a slight spiciness.
It is generally recommended to use regular brand olive oil for simple frying or grilling, while premium olive oil is considered better for salads or for consuming on its own, even if it is more expensive.
Another item driving grocery sales is balsamic vinegar. There are 13 different types of balsamic vinegar available, with a wide range of prices. The most widely sold balsamic vinegars are "Don Giovanni" Condiment Balsamic Vinegar (67,500 won, 250ml) and "Acetaia Malpighi" IGP Balsamic Vinegar Gold (89,100 won, 250ml). The "Malpighi" IGP Balsamic Condiment Trenta (189,000 won, 250ml) is also popular despite its relatively high price.
Kim Youngmin, head of the Food & Living Team at Gwangju Shinsegae, said, "As the slow aging trend grows, more consumers are purchasing premium ingredients to experience happiness through caring for their health. We hope customers will discover a wide variety of premium ingredients at our Food Market."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
