Muskmelons Production and Growth in Australia (2020)

Overview

Muskmelons are a variety of fruit that houses two subtypes. One of these variants is rockmelons, whereas the other one is honeydew melons. Production of this particular type of melon occurs all across Australia. Thus, they are available all-year-round for consumption.

Statistics of Muskmelons

As of June 2020:

1. In Australia, 34% of the citizens purchased this fruit while on their shopping trip. Thus, the average amounts to 1.1 kg per trip.
2. The wholesale value of the fresh supply amounted to $183 million. Out of this $152 million was distributed into retail, and $30.5 million was reserved for food service.
3. The supply per capita was recorded at 2.4 kg, based on the volume that was supplied.
4. 72,022 tonnes of muskmelons were produced and valued at $185.2 million.

Major Muskmelon Production Areas

Muskmelons are predominantly grown in all states across the nation. However, the majority of this production occurs in the northern Australian states. Some of the major producing areas are the Darwin region in the Northern Territory; Cowra and Riverina in New South Wales; the Riverland region in South Australia and Sunraysia in Victoria.

Muskmelons Vs. Canteloupes

This fruit is also known as Cucumis melo, is a species of melon that belongs to the gourd family. It’s closely related to other plants like squash, pumpkin, zucchini, and watermelon. Given that both types of cantaloupe are a variety of muskmelon, their nutritional contents and health benefits are similar.

However, the skin of the North American cantaloupe has a net-like appearance and a subtler, less distinct flavour. Meanwhile, the European cantaloupe has light green skin and sweeter flesh.While all cantaloupes are muskmelons, not all muskmelons are cantaloupes.

Fresh International Trade

Australia is primarily considered to be a net exporter of melons. The nation typically exports approximately 7,707 tonnes of this fruit every year