Farmers, producers and processors from across the state have met today in Longford to explore how food innovation hubs can increase production efficiencies, reduce on-farm loss and increase the amount of Tasmanian product available to consumers.
Supporting farmers to increase production efficiencies is a key element of the Hodgman Liberal Government’s AgriFood Plan to grow the farm gate value of our agricultural sector to $10 billion per annum by 2050.
The unprecedented demand for Tasmanian products is being driven by our reputation for producing the highest quality and this forum looked at opportunities to help farmers make the most of their produce.
Currently a lot of produce with visual imperfections is thrown away and part of the forum’s focus was to bring together producers to find solutions and develop a sustainable plan to get ‘imperfect’ looking produce to market, reducing loses and increasing return to farmers and processors.
The Food Innovation Hubs Tasmania forum was organised by MacTavish West, Eat Well Tasmania, RDS Partners, Optimum Standard, and the Tasmanian Fruit and Vegetable Export Facilitation Group.
This Government is a passionate supporter of our primary industries and the vital role they play in building a stronger economy and creating jobs, particularly in regional Tasmania.
We are committed to continue supporting agriculture with more than $100 million investment outlined in our 2019-20 Budget, including additional funding for the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, Biosecurity Tasmania, Research Development and Extension, extensive irrigation development across the state, education and training, food safety and more.
More Media Releases from Guy Barnett
More Media Releases from the Minister for Primary Industries and Water