The benefits from fruits and vegetables in our diet include lowered risk of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and more. A new UK study has found a strong link between eating more fruits and vegetables daily and increased longevity.

South African deciduous fruit (apples, pears and table grapes) production and exports continues to grow mainly due to new orchards coming into full production, and some wine grape areas being diverted to table grapes. This has cushioned the impact of the recent drought conditions.

“Functional Foods” are foods or dietary components that claim to provide health benefits aside from basic nutrition1. These foods contain biologically active substances such as antioxidants that may lower the risks from certain diseases associated with aging.

Citrus fruits, coffee and avocados: The food on our tables has become more diverse in recent decades. However, global agriculture does not reflect this trend.

The water situation looks better in the Boland and Cape Town but alas, that doesn’t tell the full story of the Western Cape: the Klein-Karoo has barely had rain or snow this winter and the dam levels are shocking: two important irrigation dams, the Kammanassie Dam and the Stompdrift Dam are 8% and 2% full respectively. The Poortjieskloof Dam is 0.2% full.

According to Agri Western Cape, many fruit orchards and wine vineyards in the Klein-Karoo have either already withered and died because of the drought, or have been removed to relieve pressure on extremely limited water sources.

Thinking Local: The need for a varied South African diet.

South Africa’s urgent need to create jobs requires that the country take advantage of opportunities in the global economy that it can convert into quick wins.

Rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, fresh fruit can be an excellent addition to a well-rounded diet.

The global lime market is currently set for a revival, as the catering industry continues to open back up across many countries, increasing the demand for the citrus fruit.

Fruits are a crucial component of a robust diet because they include active nutrients including vitamins, minerals, and fiber.