Summer has officially begun thanks to the start of the Australian stonefruit season.
Sweet and juicy peaches, nectarines, plums and apricots are already available in stores across the country, just in time for the festive season.
Despite several bad weather conditions - from hailstorms to drought - Chair of Summerfruit Australia and Stonefruit grower Andrew Finlay is confident that this year’s crop will be sweeter than ever.
“Many of the regions have had growing conditions impacted by extreme weather events this season,” he said.
“There have been late frosts which were devastating to new flowers, hail and wind storms which ruined fruit and damaged the fruit trees, and of course the impacts of the ongoing drought which is affecting much of eastern and southern Australia.
“Growers have needed to work extra hard to deliver plenty of beautiful stonefruit for all Aussies to enjoy this summer.
“Thankfully, if you have enough water for irrigation, stonefruit thrives during drought-weather.
“Despite the drier conditions and minimal rainfall, this season's fruit will be nice and sweet.”
Thanks to the hard work of more than 1200 stonefruit farmers from around 26 regions nation-wide, growers are predicting a strong crop, with approximately 100,000 tonnes expected.
Dietitian Jemma O’Hanlon is also excited for the start of the stonefruit season, which for her, means extra variety and flavour for the family’s fruit bowl.
“Apricots, nectarines and plums are low GI, meaning they provide a sustained energy release and help to keep you fuller for longer,” she said.
“Stonefruit are a great snack as they help keep the immune system strong and boost energy levels while being low in kilojoules.
“Stonefruit are versatile - they can be thrown into your morning smoothie, tossed through a salad or simply enjoyed on their own.
“They're the perfect 3pm pick-me-up on a hot summer's day!”
Here are Jemma’s top reasons to add stonefruit to your shopping list this summer:
- Plums - The humble plum is a source of vitamin A which is important for glowing skin and reproductive health. Try pureeing your plums. Forget high sugar chutneys - use the real fruit as a tasty accompaniment to grilled meats.
- Apricots - The lowest GI of the bunch and if you enjoy two of these delicious little fruits it provides a source of niacin, for a healthy nervous system and brain power. Try baking your apricots. The high temperature turns them soft and jammy and make a nice addition to your morning brekkie bowl, perfect with some crunchy granola.
- Nectarines and Peaches - Whether you’re a nectarine or peach fan, the good news is they’re both great for you! Boasting potassium, vitamin C and fibre, both fruits can help keep your muscles powering, your digestive health on point and your immune system in tip-top shape. Try slicing your nectarines and peaches. Enjoy as a snack or toss through a salad with walnuts and blue cheese for a burst of sweetness.
