Banana supplies unaffected by floods
Despite the wet weather in Queensland, there is still an abundant supply of bananas and growers are continuing to send fruit to market, according to the Australian Banana Growers’ Council (ABGC).
ABGC CEO Jonathan Eccles said bananas have been relatively unaffected by the recent weather across Queensland.
“With a continued plentiful supply there should be no excuse to increase retail prices,” Eccles said.
“As one of the nation’s top selling fruit, it seems there is considerable confusion about the status of banana supplies as a result of the floods across parts of Queensland,” he said.
Eccles went on to say that with large volumes of good quality fruit coming out of north Queensland, consumers should not be seeing any higher retail prices.
“We know that Australians love their bananas, so it is only right that consumers are rewarded with prices reflecting the quantity of fruit on the market,” he said.
Growers continue to send more than 450,000 cartons to market despite the climatic conditions, and consumers are encouraged to shop around.
According to Eccles, retail prices prior to Christmas in most outlets have been good value for money, and there is no reason why this wouldn’t continue
“Growers are also keen for consumers to taste the benefits of the abundance in fruit so retailers should make every effort in keeping the prices consistent with supply and demand,” Eccles said.
