‘Perfectly good’ produce supermarkets reject hits sweet spot with conscientious consumers

Consumers switching from cheaper imports to Australian produce are creating a boom for small businesses championing local goods and finding uses for odd-sized fruit destined to rot in paddocks.

Farmers and boutique manufacturers report a surge in consumer demand for local produce since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Kokopod founder Brigid Woolnough said that, with international travel off the cards because of COVID-19, her Buderim, Queensland, chocolate business had at least doubled in 12 months.

“I’ve noticed consumers care…