Brisbane Produce Report – 6 October 2023
As the warmer weather sets in, we’re seeing new seasonal fresh produce make its way through the Brisbane Markets and into your local fruit and veg shop. To keep your body healthy as we hit hotter days, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet full of delicious, fresh fruit and vegetables.
Our pick of the week is Mangoes which are just coming into season from North Queensland and the Northern Territory. The symbolic first tray of the season was auctioned at the Brisbane Markets this week raising $40,000 for charity, with Domenico Cassagrande from Carina Megafresh and Chandler Megafresh taking the title of Mango King. Be sure to pick up some Mangoes this season from your local fruit and veg shop.
As well as tasting delicious, Mangoes are quite the superfood, containing over 20 different vitamins and minerals. They aid digestion and are a great post workout snack to replace potassium. For a sweet yet healthy dinner, try this Chicken Mango Avocado Salad.
We’re seeing fantastic prices for Hass Avocados at the moment, with plenty of produce coming from multiple growing regions. Avocados provide healthy omega-3 fatty acids which help to lower cholesterol and improve heart health. They are great as is, in a salad or sandwich, or smashed on a piece of toast.
Berries continue to be great value this week with Blueberries from Coffs Harbour, Crows Nest and New South Wales and Strawberries from the Sunshine Coast at great prices and wonderful in flavour. Treat yourself with these Blueberry and White Chocolate Cookies.
While the citrus season is winding down, you can still find fresh Grapefruit from South Australia in your local fruit and veg shop. Known for their sweet, tangy taste and burst of flavour, Grapefruits are packed with nutritional value.
Lady Finger Bananas from North Queensland continue to be in good supply. Did you know Bananas contain tryptophan, which your body converts into serotonin, a natural mood regulator? That explains why this Pan-fried Bananas with Coconut Yoghurt recipe will make you feel good.
Tomatoes from North Queensland are still in excellent supply and great quality this week. Impress your friends and family with this easy and super cheesy Cherry Tomato and Basil Tart.
Halloween is just a few weeks away and you would have started to see Halloween style Pumpkins on the shelves. Grown in Bowen, these classic gourds are perfect for making spooky Halloween faces. But if you’re after taste, go for Kent or Butternut Pumpkins from North Queensland and try this Baked Chicken with Pumpkin and Chorizo recipe.
Gatton is producing a good supply of Carrots. Known for their high levels of vitamin C, Carrots are an incredibly versatile root vegetable that can be served with both sweet and savoury dishes. Lean into the sweet with these Carrot Cake Cookies.
Speaking of root vegetables, you’ll find plenty of Gold Sweet Potato in your local fruit and veg shop. The Bundaberg region is experiencing perfect growing conditions, making for good prices and great eating. For a simple yet delicious dinner, try this Lamb and Sweet Potato Tray Bake.
Asparagus from Victoria is well priced, good quality and a great option to add to breakfast or dinner. Simply grill the tender spears with a touch of olive oil and sea salt, add them to pasta dishes, or create a vibrant Asparagus salad with lemon vinaigrette! Try our Spaghetti al Limone with Asparagus for a refreshing spring delight.
The Lockyer Valley peak growing season for green, leafy vegetables is coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find them in your local fruit and veg shop. As less Broccoli, Cauliflower, Cabbage and other Brassica lines come out of Gatton over the coming weeks, these produce lines will be coming from Victoria, which is just starting their season, ensuring you always have household staples available fresh.
Shop where you see the A better choice! logo
Your local A better choice! fruit and veg shop hand picks their produce from the Brisbane Markets® at Rocklea which comes from thousands of local farms. Why not call in and see your local fruit and veg shop for the best quality, choice, freshness, and service available!
Find out more about Our Industry, Our Members, and Our Services, look for a Career at the Brisbane Markets, or become A better choice! retailer.