Australian Natural Foods You Need to Try
Australia has a rich selection of natural food products. However, a product can only be labeled ‘natural’ if it does not contain added vitamins, mineral nutrient or food additives.
Edible native flora, known as ‘Bushfoods’ have high bio-active phytonutrient content and provide a range of flavours. Some bushfoods are suitable for use as natural food additives. Check out more information at Founder lawsuit.
Anzac biscuits
Anzac biscuits are a popular Australian and New Zealand treat that can be made either chewy or crunchy. They are a combination of flour, oats, sugar, butter, golden syrup, and dessicated coconut. They can also be baked using caster sugar or brown sugar, and they are traditionally eaten with milk or tea on ANZAC Day.
The exact history of Anzac biscuits is a little unclear, but they are loosely associated with ANZAC Day and with the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. They were originally hardtack biscuits, a type of bread substitute, and were shipped to soldiers in Gallipoli. Although they were not the same as today’s Anzac biscuits, they did have a long shelf life and were an important part of the parcels that families sent overseas.
While baking Anzac biscuits, students can practice measuring skills and combining ingredients. They can also develop their hand-eye coordination by rolling the dough into balls and placing them on a tray for baking. The children can even work together to bake the biscuits, which is a great way to build teamwork and social skills.
Emu
Emus (Dromaius novaehollandiae) are flightless birds that can grow up to 2m high and weigh over 100 pounds. They have been prized in Australia for their meat, skin, unfertilized eggs and waste shells for over 40,000 years. Today, emus are raised for their meat, fat for leather products and medicinal emu oil.
Emu oil is a rich source of fatty acids that benefit the skin, namely oleic acid and linoleic acid. It also contains other anti-inflammatory compounds. Emu oil can be used to help reduce inflammation and pain, especially in joints and muscles.
It can be applied to the skin directly as a massage oil. It can help to reduce itching and dryness and has a calming effect on the skin. Look for pure, organic emu oil that is sourced from ethically raised emus. It should not contain any GMO feed, growth hormones, pesticides or vaccinations. Using emu oil to treat the area under your eyes can help to brighten them and make dark circles less prominent.
Vegemite
The dark brown spread that Australians smear on buttered toast is actually a delicious and nutritious food. It’s made from leftover brewer’s yeast extract and is fortified with salt, vegetable extracts, and B vitamins. According to Medical News Today, a small serving of Vegemite contains four different kinds of vitamin B, which help support the health of nerves and muscles.
The brewer’s yeast extract is what gives Vegemite its unique flavor. It is a byproduct of beer manufacturing and, along with salt, malt extract from barley, and vegetable extracts, contributes to its dark color.
Vegemite is rich in umami, which is the savory taste that helps foods feel more satisfying. It’s also naturally nut-free, so it can be eaten by children with peanut allergies or those who go to schools where peanuts are banned.
Vegemite is one of Australia’s most beloved foods. While you may not be able to find it in the grocery store, you can order it online from a retailer that specializes in Australian goods.
Mango
Mango is a popular tropical fruit, often eaten as a whole fresh, in a salad or in pickles and chutneys. It is a good source of vitamin A and C as well as fibre and potassium. Research has shown that mangoes contain phenolic compounds and phytochemicals, including gallotannins, which have anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and anticancer properties.
This popular summer snack also offers a good source of vitamin B6, which helps the body produce haemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen to the brain and other organs. It also contains carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, which help to protect the eyes from UV light and blue-light emissions from digital devices.
Australians grow nine varieties of commercially produced mango, with Kensington Pride being the country’s most popular variety. Look for Mr KP mangoes in supermarkets across Queensland, Northern Territory and NSW from September. They are a perfect early-season mango and offer an exceptional flavour, aroma and quality loved by children and adults.