As fruit and vegetable prices continue to rise worldwide, Kiwis are taking matters into their own hands by bottling, canning, and freezing as much fresh produce as possible. With concerns over food security and lockdowns limiting access to supermarkets during the pandemic, more and more individuals are turning to home preservation methods to ensure they have access to healthy, nutritious food all year round. In this article, we will explore the rising trend of Kiwis embracing DIY preservation and how they are making the most of the current situation.
The rising cost of fruit and vegetables in New Zealand has led to an increase in individuals preserving excess produce to save money. According to recent reports, vegetable prices have increased significantly since 2019 with potatoes, pumpkin, and carrots experiencing a significant rise. As a result, Christchurch teacher, Katherine Riddell, has seen an increasing demand for her classes that teach individuals how to preserve and reduce waste. Riddell herself has been preserving produce for over 40 years and has been finding creative ways to utilise her small yard for growth. She recommends replacing flower gardens with simple vegetable gardens, shopping around for specials, and preserving meat. She also encourages families to spend just two hours on weekends preparing meals for the week ahead to reduce food waste and save money. Another Christchurch mother, Sophie Love, is also saving money by preserving excess produce and seeking out free produce in her neighborhood. United Fresh’s Jerry Prendergast warns this year’s extreme weather events will likely continue to impact the fresh produce market in the coming months. Trade Me has also seen an 11% increase in sales of preserving jars since the Covid pandemic.
As Kiwis prepare for the colder months ahead, many are opting to preserve their favourite fruits and vegetables through bottling, canning, and freezing. With prices skyrocketing, it’s a smart way to ensure a steady supply of produce. While it may take some extra effort, the end result is worth it – delicious, healthy produce that lasts all year round. As we continue to navigate the challenges of our ever-changing world, it’s comforting to know that we can still take control of our food supply and enjoy the taste of a Kiwi summer in the depths of winter.
