What happens when food is left to drop and rot? Dr. Joanne Freeman interviews Kelly Johnson, owner of Woodlane Orchard for the Food Waste Matters Podcast. Kelly's business revolves around purchasing surplus produce from local farmers and transforming it into dehydrated products like soups, meals, snacks, and garnishes. Tune in as the pair chat about:
The establishment of Woodlane Orchard and how it was born out of necessity for employment and the realisation of surplus produce going to waste.
How Kelly sources her produce directly from farmers, focusing on obtaining "ugly" and second-hand produce that would otherwise be discarded.
The reality is that much of the excess fruit that doesn't meet supermarket standards is allowed to rot as farmers can't afford the labour costs associated with harvesting them.
Why Woodlane Orchard creates family-sized meals as well as smaller, lightweight meals for hikers and caravaners under the Sphiker brand.
Kelly’s progress in finding a clear, home compostable packaging solution, aiming to make her business 100% sustainable in the future.
The reason for advocacy towards a local circular economy system where one central hub coordinates the distribution of surplus food among businesses and local industries.
Kelly's character growth is evident throughout the interview. She starts off needing employment and noticing surplus produce. It then evolves into creating a successful business around combating food waste and advocating for changes in how surplus food is distributed in regional areas.
To find out more about Woodlane Orchard and learn more about Kelly’s business please visit https://www.woodlaneorchard.com.au/.
This podcast is brought to you by Honey & Fox, where their passion is food and the people who produce it. Honey & Fox specialise in getting you in front of the right people, in the right place, at the right time. Find out more at www.honeyandfox.com.au.
This podcast is supported by End Food Waste Australia who are leading impactful and research-informed food waste actions. To find out more about how they are working toward a more sustainable future please visit www.endfoodwaste.com.au.
