Wang Cuifen's farm is also working with the Weifang Academy of Agricultural Sciences to draft industry standards for the entire production chain of pregnancy-safe and infant-grade kale.

"This is the first in the kale sector. I hope to promote these standards so that more people can access healthy vegetables," she said.

Inspired by Chen Zhenlong, a merchant said to have introduced sweet potatoes to China in the 16th century that helped alleviate a food crisis, Wang aspires to make a similar impact.

"I want to improve the dietary habits of the Chinese people," she said. "Just as Chen Zhenlong changed the way we eat, I hope kale can become a staple in our diets."