Macadamias are set to become more accessible for the average Australian, with an increased supply expected to lead to lower prices in the months ahead.
The international sales manager for Sunshine Coast-based macadamia supplier Nutworks said the combination of reduced demand internationally during the Covid pandemic, combined with increased planting by local growers over the past 5-10 years, had resulted in a perfect storm for Australians who love the native ‘king of the nuts’.
“This is great news for consumers as macadamias, that have in the past been regarded as a bit of a luxury purchase, will come down in price and be far more accessible as a healthy, delicious snack in the months ahead,” Sarah Leonard said.
“Of course, while this is a great outcome for our customers, as a processor and supplier we also understand that as farm-gate prices come down, there will be challenging times ahead for our local growers.
“These are hard-working farmers, mostly located between Bundaberg in the north, out to Toowoomba in the west and down to the Northern Rivers of New South Wales. Collectively they create hundreds of local jobs which form an important part of these local economies, and this year they will have to work harder to collect their increased harvest, while lower prices put greater pressure on their livelihoods.
“Some of these farmers have been working with us since we opened our doors in Yandina in the mid-1990s, so we are working hard to support them in the coming months by exploring new markets for Australian macadamias and delivering macadamias in flavour combinations and formats not previously seen.”
In a bid to increase demand for macadamias – both locally and internationally – Nutworks has invested heavily in expanding its retail product range, with new snacking, chocolate, confectionery, muesli and home chef products launching.
Sunshine Coast grower Chris Fullerton welcomed the move as he enters the busiest period of the harvest season.
“Early nuts start dropping late March but the bulk fall between April to July. Within our farming operation, we’ll have six full-time employees harvesting between our five orchards,” he said.
While macadamia production is expanding overseas, particularly in China, Australian-grown macadamias are still highly regarded by consumers.
“The macadamia nut could not be more local than here in South-East Queensland, given this is where it was first discovered in Bauple, just outside Gympie,” Ms Leonard said.
“Its journey from a cherished delicacy harvested and traded by Aboriginal peoples to a globally renowned crop is testament to its enduring appeal and nutritional value.
“Many Australians don’t realise that these delectable nuts are a true national treasure, and the only native Australian crop that is grown commercially around the world. Every macadamia nut in the world has its origins right here in South-East Queensland.”
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Australian Macadamia Society CEO Clare Hamilton-Bate said she shared growers’ concern for the industry as a whole.
“These are difficult times for our industry but the current market situation also provides an opportunity to introduce more consumers and markets to the wonderful taste, texture and versatility of macadamias,” said Ms Hamilton-Bate.
“The investment Nutworks has made into expanding its range and delivering macadamias in new and exciting ways will appeal to both new and existing macadamia consumers, who’ll be enjoying a great product while also supporting local farmers, local employment and ultimately the local and national economy.”
The new Nutworks offerings include the Gourmet, Indulge, Confectionery, Nourish and Chef’s Pantry ranges, with flavours such as Maple Pancake, Lamington Chocolate and Macadamia Brittle, as well as products for whole-foods fans and home cooks
For more information visit www.nutworks.com.au.
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