Difficult spring weather is likely to have a positive flip side for New Zealand-grown apricots, peaches, plums, nectarines and cherries which are now beginning to appear in store.
Summerfruit NZ says pollination in some crops has been patchy and, combined with the recent wet weather, means overall crop volumes are likely to be down.
“It has been a very strange start to summer and not kind to summerfruit growers,” explains Summerfruit NZ Chief Executive Marie Dawkins.
“But chances are the fruit will be bigger and likely to have better flavour because the trees are supporting less fruit. A lighter crop load is not necessarily a bad thing and may result in fantastic fruit if the weather plays its part.”
Dawkins says Kiwis will have to be in quick as there’s only a 12-week window before these delicious fruits will disappear for another year: “It’s definitely a case of getting them while you can.”
Paula Dudley, General Manager at The 5+ A Day Charitable Trust, says eating summerfruit is an excellent way to increase your intake of fresh fruit and vegetables and ensure you are getting five or more servings a day.
“Enjoying fruit while it’s in season is the best value and will also help reduce your disease risks,” she explains.
“Apricots, for example, are a great source of dietary fibre, niacin, vitamins A, C and E, and also contain potassium. Recent studies suggest that eating plenty of fruit and vegetables may help people lead longer lives.”
The 5+ A Day Charitable Trust is also encouraging Kiwis to plant more fruit trees this summer, as a contribution towards the Government’s plan to plant one billion trees over the next 10 years. This sustainable and eco-friendly plan will help provide a future source of food and support healthy eating and wellbeing initiatives in our communities.
For more information:
Niki Walsh
Mobile: +64 21 999 109
Email: niki@villagenz.com