Veggycation, an online education tool showcasing more than 80 vegetable products, was launched in Australia this week.
The website outlines the nutritional benefits of each variety and explains the optimal methods to store, prepare and cook them.
Developedas a strategic levy investment through Hort Innovation, Veggycation has the backing of Belinda Adams, deputy chair of peak representative body Ausveg, who says the resource is a highly educational and easy to use tool for vegetable growers, health professionalsand consumers.
“We know that less than five per cent of Australians meet the recommended daily intake of vegetables, which is a huge concern given the many health benefits that a vegetable-rich diet has for a healthy lifestyle,” said Adams.
“TheVeggycationwebsite is a great tool that provides a refreshing way to learn not only about the health benefits of different vegetables, but also the best way to store them to reduce waste and increase shelf life, as well as the best cooking methods to make the best use of their natural taste and health benefits.”
From a production standpoint, Veggycation includes valuable information for growers – both professional farmers and home gardeners – about harvesting, postharvest storage and handling, along with nutrition and health claims that can be included on promotional materials.
“As a grower, this resource is also really important as it has grower-focused nutrition and health claims, already pre-approved by Food Standards Australia and New Zealand, that I can use to promote my specific vegetable products and lines to consumers,” explained Adams.
“Australian vegetable growers work tirelessly to provide healthy vegetables to our customers – this resource arms growers and the wider industry with information to educate consumers about the many health and wellbeing benefits that incorporating more vegetables into their diets can provide, which will hopefully lead to an increase in consumption across the board.”
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