Innovative Walkamin entrepreneurKrista Watkins has been named as Queensland's latest #eatqld Champion.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said Krista, the winner of the 2018 National Rural Women's Award, had been chosen for her passionate support of Queensland produce.
"Krista is a leader in agricultural innovation and the co-founder and managing director of Natural Evolution Foods, a world-first company specialising in green banana flour products," Mr Furner said.
"Natural Evolution Foods has found innovative uses for otherwise wasted green bananas including gluten-free banana flour and a range of skin care products.
"Krista's passion for creating new, high-value food products that help local farmers generate additional income makes her the perfect choice as our third #eatqld Champion.
"Krista joins Bowen horticulturalist Carl Walker and Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre's Executive Chef David Pugh Queenslanders who help to promote and advance Queensland's reputation for producing a world of flavour from the state of delicious."
Krista Watkins said becoming an #eatqld Champion was timely recognition for the pioneering work done at Natural Evolution.
"Natural Evolution is unique because we buy beautiful produce from farmers that would ordinarily be thrown away and produce the world's best functional foods, cosmetics and spirits right here in North Queensland," Ms Watkins said.
"Personally, being a #eatqld Champion is a privilege as I'm very passionate and actively encourage others to live healthy and happy lifestyles. Food is such an important part of our everyday.
"Queensland producers are world class and it's interesting observing the emerging layer of producers who are challenging the status quo, diversifying both in their raw produce but also their finished products.
"That gets me really excited, we should be on the map as a food destination."
Mr Furner said the Queensland Government's #eatqld campaign encouraged the community to eat local, stay healthy and support jobs in the state's agricultural sector.
"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," Mr Furner said.
"By eating Queensland-produced meat, seafood, fruit, nuts and veggies you support everybody that brings that food to your table."
