In Australia, only 6.5% of the population meets the recommended intake of five serves of vegetables per day, with the majority consuming less than two serves, as reported by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. This decline in vegetable consumption not only poses health risks but also significantly impacts the agricultural sector, particularly vegetable growers who are facing economic challenges.
According to AusVeg, a peak horticulture industry body, over a third of vegetable growers are contemplating exiting the industry within the next year due to rising costs for essential resources like fuel, electricity, and labor, alongside poor retail pricing and regulatory hurdles. Catherine Velisha, a third-generation vegetable grower from Werribee, Melbourne, highlighted the dire situation, stating that the drop in vegetable demand exacerbates the financial strain on producers, especially when coupled with the increasing cost of inputs.
Velisha pointed out that consumer habits have shifted, affecting producers significantly. The cost of production inputs has surged, creating a substantial discrepancy between production costs and retail prices, placing immense pressure on growers. She emphasized the importance of increasing vegetable consumption, not only for public health but also for the sustainability of the horticulture industry.
Furthermore, the economic implications extend beyond the farming community. Dietitian and nutritionist Jemma O'Hanlon mentioned that the healthcare system bears a financial burden of $24 billion due to illnesses related to poor diets, which could be mitigated by better eating habits. O'Hanlon debunked the myth of high costs associated with healthy eating, noting that vegetables cost, on average, 65 cents per serve, making them an affordable option.
Both O'Hanlon and Velisha advocate for a dietary shift towards the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing whole foods and vegetables for improved health and economic benefits. Velisha calls for the horticulture sector and government to work together in promoting healthy eating, suggesting that even a small increase in vegetable consumption could significantly benefit public health and the agricultural industry.
Source: ABC News