GROWERS CALL ON SHOPPERS TO CHOOSE TROPICALS.

Tropical fruit growers up and down the east coast of Australia are shouting from the treetops and sharing the good news far and wide; tropical fruit is back in great supply. It is now time for grocery shoppers to back Queensland growers and add tropical fruit to their baskets.

JE Tipper CEO, Steve Barnes, said his customers are looking forward to the much-needed boost in available volume this month, “In the last twelve months, tropical fruit growers have showed resilience and determination after being heavily impacted by weather and natural events earlier in 2024, it’s particularly great to see tropicals back on shelves. Lychees and limes are also hitting the market this week and so shoppers will soon be spoilt for choice”.

The devastation caused earlier in the year by over three meters of rainfall, significant tree loss, and damage to plant and soil interrupted the usual 52-week supply of papaya. JE Tipper supply a full range of tropical fruit to independent retailers, green grocers, and food service customers across Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, and are pleased to report increased volume across multiple categories available for consumers.

“When you rely on fruit from several major growers located in Far North Queensland, you also rely on good weather and consistent growing conditions”, said Barnes, “this year has definitely tested our resilience and processes like no other, but I am pleased to see grower’s investment in nursery, crop and variety development delivering volume in time for summer”.

But growers aren’t the only ones who have had a tough year, and nor are they the only ones who can enjoy the benefits of increasing supply of tropical fruit. When the grocery budget is tight, shopping for good tasting, quality fruit is even more important.

Tropical fruit is a reliable source of nutrition and a versatile ingredient suitable for all eating occasions. Papaya pairs perfectly with other tropicals, such as, mango, limes and lemons, and new varieties of passionfruit are so full of juice they can be eaten alone to provide a refreshing summer snack.

“One of the interesting aspects of papaya – apart from it being a delicious and nutritious superfood – is that it is incredibly versatile. You can use it in a papaya boat for breakfast, in bruschetta for lunch, and in savoury curries for dinner!” said Candy MacLaughlin, General Manager Skybury Papaya.

Consumers can now find new season lychees, limes, papaya and passionfruit in their favourite greengrocer or supermarket.

ENQUIRIES: Nicole Lenske nlenske@jetipper.com.au Phone: 0487 000 433