More people conscious about food source since COVID-19

If there’s one good thing that has come from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is the increased appreciation towards Australian farmers for keeping supermarket shelves stocked and bellies full.

A new research conducted by the National Farmers Federation (NFF) has shown that one in four Australian consumers are now more conscious about their food source since the pandemic began.

NFF President and Liverpool Plains farmer, Fiona Simson, said panic buying and temporary supermarket shortages had caused angst for many Australians.

“It is logical that Australians have taken a greater interest in the origin of their meat, dairy, eggs, bread, fruit, vegetables and more.

“Inquiring consumers will have been pleasantly surprised to find that up to 96 per cent of the food on their supermarket shelves is home grown.

“All Australians should take comfort in the fact that Australia is one of the most food secure nations in the world. Every year we produce up to two thirds more food than we can consume at home.”

The report also found that increased interest was greatest in older Australians, with one in three over the age of 55 admitting they now think more about the origins of their food. Females were also more likely to be more conscious of the source of their groceries, at 31 per cent, compared to men at 24 per cent.

The report was released last week in conjunction with National Agriculture Day, a day when Australian agriculture and farmers are celebrated and appreciated.

 “Importantly, AgDay is also an opportunity for farmers to have an ongoing conversation with consumers about how and where our food comes from,” Simson said.

“Supply chain disruptions and a return to home cooking brought Australians back to basics and in effect, closer to farmers.

“A deeper connection and understanding between farmers and consumers are essential to NFF’s goal for agriculture to be Australia’s most trusted industry by 2030.”