Buy local, in season and in supply
When you buy fruit and vegetables that are local, in season and in supply, they cost less, taste better and last longer. Buying local also supports local farmers and reduces the food miles to get food to your plate.
Buy local
Buy local by always checking the country of origin for fresh fruit and vegetables and packaged food. Australian food suppliers (including retailers, market stallholders and online stores) are all required to comply with the Country of Origin Food Labelling Standard 2016.
Buy in season
Buy fruit and vegetables when they are in season by using our helpful guide for the most common fruit and vegetables below. For a comprehensive guide, refer to the Australian Seasonal Food Guide website or speak with your local produce supplier for more information.
Spring
- Apples
- Asparagus
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Corn
- Mandarins
- Mangoes
- Peas
- Radish
- Strawberries
- Zucchini
Summer
- Apricots
- Asparagus
- Bananas
- Cherries
- Corn
- Cucumbers
- Eggplants
- Lychees
- Mangoes
- Nectarines
- Zucchini
Autumn
- Apples
- Bananas
- Carrots
- Eggplants
- Mandarins
- Nectarines
- Pomegranate
- Pumpkin
- Zucchini
Winter
- Apples
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Carrots
- Mandarins
- Peas
- Pumpkin
- Radish
- Strawberries
Buy in supply
Buy in supply by monitoring what's available at what price throughout the year. Severe weather, global conflict, labour and fuel costs can all affect the price of produce.
If you notice the fruit and vegetables you normally buy have increased in price, look for cheaper produce alternatives and try out some new recipes. Ask you local greengrocer what's the best value for money at the moment.
And don't forget...
When you shop for food, don't forget to take:
- shopping list
- reusable shopping bags.