Boost your health and support our local horticulture industry

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South Australians are being asked to help support their local horticulture industries by filling up on fruit and vegetables this summer.

PIRSA, as part of the South Australian Fruit and Vegetable Coalition (SAFVC) has launched its summer ‘Go for 2&5’ campaign to encourage consumers to eat more fruit and vegetables to help boost industry growth.

SAFVC is a group of organisations from the horticulture, health, education and environment sectors, which are working collaboratively to ‘increase fruit and vegetable consumption in South Australia’

Barry Philp, PIRSA’s Director Horticulture Industry Development says the campaign encourages consumers to eat at least two serves of fruit and five serves of vegetables every day.

Currently South Australians only consume about half this target.

“By eating more healthy foods and buying local, fresh produce, people will not only boost their health but also support local growers,” Mr Philp said.

An increase of just one serve per person per day is estimated to be worth $240 million to the State’s economy.

Mr Philp says whilst the local horticulture industry is going through a challenging period with increasing drought conditions, it’s important that the community continue to support the industry.

“We don’t want consumers to stop buying local produce, because of fears of price increases due to drought,” he said.

“In comparison to other snack foods, an apple still represents very good value.

“Our local horticulture industries need our support more than ever.

“I encourage everyone to fill up their shopping baskets with local fruit and vegetables and enjoy the amazing fresh tastes of the season.”

Media contact: Peter Willmott, PIRSA Policy Project Officer, 0422 002 727.