Embrace Local Fruits for Sustainable Agriculture, Says National Food Agency Chief
Jakarta (ANTARA) – In light of recent concerns regarding pesticide residue found on imported Shine Muscat grapes, the Head of the National Food Agency (Bapanas), Arief Prasetyo Adi, is advocating for the consumption of local fruits among Indonesians. In a press release this Sunday, Arief emphasized that opting for domestic produce is crucial for sustaining local agriculture.
Local fruit consumption exemplifies a commitment to utilizing Indonesia’s diverse food resources. "Choosing local fruit demonstrates our commitment to utilizing our food resources and potential," Arief stated. His remarks come as Indonesia conducts rapid pesticide tests on Shine Muscat grapes, affirming their safety despite regulatory issues from Thai authorities.
Promoting Food Security Through Local Choices
Arief noted that boosting food security in Indonesia begins with food independence. "This means we must prioritize domestic production," he asserted, pointing out the variety of local fruits such as mangosteen, mango, banana, and snake fruit readily available to meet consumer demands.
The promotion of local fruit consumption is aligned with efforts to diversify food sources, as stipulated in Presidential Regulation Number 81 of 2024. Arief articulated three key advantages of choosing local fruits:
- Supporting a Healthy Lifestyle: Local fruits are fresh and retain their nutritional value, enhancing consumers’ well-being.
- Economic Benefits: Purchasing local produce contributes to regional and national economic growth.
- Enhanced Livelihoods for Farmers: Prioritizing local products supports Indonesian farmers, boosting their income and sustainability.
Rising Consumption Trends Amidst Nutritional Gaps
Recent data from the Expected Food Pattern report for 2023 reveals a positive trend in fruit consumption among Indonesians. Average consumption rose from 76.7 grams per capita per day in 2021 to 88.7 grams in 2023. However, this figure still falls short of national targets and the World Health Organization’s recommendation of at least 65 kilograms per person annually.
According to the report, in 2023 the average Indonesian consumed only 34.4 kilograms of fruit per capita per year, indicating a clear pathway for growth. Bapanas’ Food Consumption Diversification Director, Rinna Syawal, elaborated on the benefits of local fruits, emphasizing their freshness and superior nutritional content. "Local fruit is fresher and healthier because it is harvested at peak ripeness and doesn’t travel long distances to reach consumers," she said.
Initiatives to Raise Awareness
In a bid to increase public awareness about the merits of local fruit, Bapanas has engaged in various outreach activities throughout the year. "We have distributed approximately 9,050 bottles of vegetable and fruit juice, along with 15,350 bananas, for free at various events," Rinna noted. These initiatives aim to educate the public on the importance of incorporating local produce into their diets.
Additionally, the agency is running the "B2SA Goes to School" (BGtS) program, which promotes diverse, nutritious, balanced, and safe food made from local ingredients in 380 schools across 38 provinces. This program is designed to reach approximately 80,000 students, fostering a future generation of informed consumers.
A Call to Action: Choose Local for a Healthier Future
As discussions around food sourcing and health continue to evolve, the message from Bapanas is clear: opting for local fruits is not only a personal choice but a communal obligation. By supporting local farmers and choosing sustainably cultivated produce, Indonesians can play a pivotal role in strengthening the nation’s food security and agricultural resilience.
In a world increasingly concerned about food safety and quality, embracing local fruits may be one of the simplest yet most effective steps to ensure a healthier future for individuals and communities alike. As consumers, we hold the power to influence agricultural practices and support our economy with every choice we make at the market.
Your thoughts matter. What local fruits do you enjoy, and how do you think we can further support local farmers? Share your insights in the comments below!
For more on food safety and agriculture, check out our related articles on Shorty-News and explore detailed information from reputable sources like TechCrunch and Wired.
