Global scan for vegetable innovation - fresh and minimally processed (VG13080)

What was it all about?

This project, which ran from 2014 to 2015, examined vegetable innovations from around the world to identify viable opportunities for Australian vegetable growers.

The team made a search for vegetable innovations for fresh and minimally processed vegetables, ranging from packaging and value‐adding to new products and other initiatives. From 40 possibilities, a deeper investigation into 10 innovations followed, to include further profiling and evaluation.

The team consulted with a range of major industry stakeholders including government officials, trade associations, as well as growers, importers, wholesalers and retailers.

Each of the 10 most promising innovations are detailed in the final report. They include:

• Micro-perforation technology to extend shelf life
• Compostable packaging and labels
• Ready to cook cut vegetables
• Living salads
• Fresh vegetable snack packs.