Increase in climate-affected produce

Heavy rain produced by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred is set to impact produce supply across parts of Queensland and New South Wales. Consumers are being encouraged to be more open to climate-affected produce and embrace the rise of the 'ugly' food movement. With rising temperatures and an increase in severe weather events around the world, climate-affected produce is becoming more common. Heavy rain can cause stone fruit to split, altering its shape, while drought can affect the taste of fruit. Currently, strict requirements from buyers mean that up to 30 per cent of fruit and vegetables grown in Australia don't leave farms. This is because they don't meet the cosmetic standards set by supermarkets, and as a result, they are discarded or turned into compost. However, companies like Funky Food are working to change this by purchasing imperfect produce from farmers and selling it directly to consumers. New research from the University of Western Australia has found that most consumers are willing to sacrifice perfection if it means saving money.