With some Victorian fruit growers recently having their canning quotas cut due to cheaper imports, fresh produce company Box Divvy is urging farmers to prioritise fresh produce for consumers.
Box Divvy was established five years ago, to connect communities with farmers and food producers for fresh, Australian-grown produce for less. It currently operates over 250 Food Hubs with around 12,000 members across New South Wales and the ACT.
Woolworths announced its strategy of using imports to cut the cost of canned fruit in early June, a decision that has had an impact on local canned fruit growers. Australia’s largest cannery, SPC, based in Shepparton, Victoria, announced its plan to reduce its intake of peaches and pears by over 40 per cent due to increased competition from cheaper imports.
Box Divvy co-founder, Anton van den Berg, has encouraged Shepparton farmers to partner with the company in an effort to continue the distribution of fresh Australian produce.
“Consumers are opting for less expensive products from countries like South Africa and China, leading SPC to reduce orders. As a result, growers face tough decisions regarding their crops. Clearly, they cannot compete with cheap imports, and it is the farmers who are paying the price,” said van den Berg.
"With over 12,000 members and 250 food Hubs already operational across New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, and expanding to Victoria shortly, Box Divvy provides Shepparton farmers with a direct avenue to connect with consumers and participate in a community-driven, farm-to-table movement.”
Van den Berg said that it was about more than just backing Australian farmers, but advocating for a priority shift towards fresh, locally sourced produce over canned alternatives.
"The canning process compromises both the flavour and nutritional integrity of fruit. By embracing the opportunity to supply fresh produce through Box Divvy, Shepparton farmers can help safeguard the quality of their harvests and contribute to the vitality of their communities."
"Working together, we can create a food system that's both sustainable and rewarding for all involved. Fresh is best on every level,” said van den Berg.
