By Deanne Jeffers
AS grocery prices surge and weather patterns become increasingly erratic, Australian farmers like Mitch McNab, fifth generation grower in Ardmona, has expressed concerns over maintaining profitability amidst challenges in both labour and input costs.
“High diesel, fuel, fertiliser, and energy prices have put a squeeze on growers,” McNab explained. Additionally, unpredictable weather events like hailstorms have impacted yields and financial stability.
Despite costs soaring for both consumers and growers, research commissioned by Australian Pears shows that a staggering six in 10 Aussies throw out a quarter of their groceries, resulting in wasting $2k each year, with fruit and vegetables accounting for 40 per cent of wastage.
Education and mindful eating habits are the key to reducing household waste, Mitch said, “The reality is that we need to try and encourage a greater amount of fruit and vegetables into peoples’ diets. The best way to support growers is by purchasing from them.
“As much as we as consumers buy with our eyes, perhaps we need to look at trying to buy for nutritional value or what best suits our eating patterns as a household and how we can get better value that way.”
Australian Pears has partnered with Masterchef finalist, Simon Toohey, to help consumers make the most of their one weekly shop and to use one pear, five ways across all stages of ripeness. From ‘Treacle Pears and Creamy Oats’ for breakfast, to ‘Pear Cake’ for dessert, these recipes demonstrate the potential of Australian grown pears across the week.
“Buying seasonal produce is a great way to keep costs down, but what’s more important is that we’re buying seasonal produce that can be used in multiple dishes, not just one,” Toohey said. “Being strategic when shopping makes it much easier when needed to throw together a last-minute meal… I always beeline to produce that can be used for a range of dishes.”
Support our local farmers by buying Australian fruit and vegetables, and if you need meal inspiration to use up your produce, Try out Toohey’s pear creations, with recipes available online at australianpears.com.au
If you have any recipes or clever tips for reducing food waste or using produce, we’d love to hear from you! Email editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au or send us a message on social media.
