Apples Production in Australia

Overview

Apples are a fruit that is abundantly produced across all states in Australia. The harvest season usually occurs between February and May. Nonetheless, this fruit is available all year-round. This is made possible due to the controlled atmosphere technology.

Statistics

As of 2019:

1. Approximately 310,875 tonnes of this fruit was produced, and they were valued at $513 million. 30% of the total percentage was sent to be processed.
2. The supply per capita was 8.5 kg. This figure is based on the volume that is supplied.
3. An astonishing 91% of Australian households bought this fruit during their grocery shopping trip. This amounts to an average of 945 grams per trip.
4. The wholesale value of the fresh supply was estimated at $573 million, and $496 million was distributed into retail, while $76.8 million was reserved for food service.

Major Apple Production Areas

This fruit is produced in all states of Australia. However, there are some regions that produce slightly more than others. The major areas where they are produced are Stanthorpe in Queensland, the Goulburn Valley, Gippsland and the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Adelaide Hills in South Australia, Batlow and Orange in New South Wales and Donnybrook and Manjimup in Western Australia.

Fresh Apple Production by State

Varieties of Apples

Even though there are different types of apples that are harvested across Australia, there are three major types that dominate the fresh market. They are Pink Lady, Gala (Royal Gala) and Granny Smith.

1. Pink Lady, which is also known as Cripps Pink, is a green-skinned apple that contains a pink to light red blush. This variant of the apple is a cross between Golden Delicious and Lady Williams. Pink Lady accounted for 41% percent of the fresh production.
2. Gala, which includes the Royal Gala, is mostly a bright red apple with a yellow pale blush. These apples account for 23% of fresh production.
3. Granny Smith, is the most common type of apple and accounts for 18% of fresh production.

Fresh Apple International Trade

Australia is considered a net exporter of this fruit. The nation exports around 2,000 to 5,000 tonnes of this fruit per year. As of June 2019, Australia has exported over 4,416 tonnes of the fruit.

Article by: Hari Yellina (Orchard Tech)