Fruit for autumn

• Published date: 22 March 2023
• Publication title: West Coast Messenger, The

Despite the havoc caused to orchards and farms during the January floods and Cyclone Gabrielle in February, favourites such as apples, pears, feijoas and limes are available in stores now, while persimmons and mandarins will arrive later in the season

Five-plus a Day trustee and principal scientist and team leader at Plant and Food Research, Dr Carolyn Lister, says autumn fruit delivers a timely nutrition boost.

"Seasonal fruit provides better value and is also the most beneficial for your health. Freshly picked produce retains the highest levels of vitamins, minerals, dietary fibre and antioxidants, which all contribute to good health and wellbeing," she said.

"We know that pricing has been a concern for shoppers this year, so it's important to make the most of the fresh fruit that's in season each month.

"Eating autumn fruit when it's in good supply is a great way to balance the health of both your whanau and your budget," Dr Lister said.

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