The Queensland Government has named Moreton Bay berry producer My Berries as the state's 21st #eatqld Champion.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said Moreton Bay-based business My Berries was already a success in supplying frozen fruits to the independent grocers nationwide, but investment in new techniques meant it will soon launch an innovative freeze-dried berry range.
"Allison and Stuart McGruddy at My Berries have shown the innovative spirit that is at the heart of Queensland's agricultural success," Mr Furner said.
"They are working hard in a small family business but they are fighting hard to grow and it can only be good for Queensland's growing reputation for clean, green, great-tasting produce.
"Stuart is a former executive chef and has a family background in berry growing, while Allison has a Master of Science degree in regulation. Between them they have a unique skillset that puts quality first.
"I really like the example that My Berries has set, and I can't wait to see what they produce next."
Allison McGruddy said by investing in the latest processing and packaging technology My Berries has created an on-the-go freeze dried snack that's 100% Aussie berries with nothing else added.
"Specialised drying methods lock in vitamins and antioxidants while intensifying the fruits' flavour and texture to create berries that are sweet and crunchy, they are light like popcorn and can be stored at room temperature," Mrs McGruddy explains.
"We are so proud of this sustainably-sourced and nutritiously dense product that showcases Queensland's best – our 12g pack of freeze dried fruit bites is equivalent to a 125g punnet of fresh berries.
"This product provides another market for farmers' surplus berries in peak season, rather than waste that top quality fruit My Berries adds value to it so it can be enjoyed all year round.
"Knowing where our food is grown is so important and we can trace each fruit back to its original farm."
Mr Furner said the Queensland Government's #eatqld campaign encouraged the community to eat local, stay healthy and support good jobs in the state's agricultural sector.
"Agriculture is going to play a vital part as we implement Queensland's Economic Recovery Plan, and with Queensland beef we are working with the world's best," Mr Furner said.
"Our produce is second to none. We are urging everybody to explore Queensland-grown food and when you do, we ask that you take a photograph and share it online using the hashtag #eatqld."
"By eating Queensland-produced meat, seafood, fruit, nuts and veggies you support everybody that brings that food to your table."
Previous #eatqld Champions include Beef Australia chairman Bryce Camm, Creek to Coast host Scott Hillier, Walkamin entrepreneur Krista Watkins, Bowen horticulturalist Carl Walker, leading chef Dominique Rizzo, Aussie Seafood House owner Ian Hamilton, and Scenic Rim dairy farmer and agritourism advocate Kay Tommerup.
