Support glasshouse country pineapple farmers
SPOOKY celebrations will have a tropical twist this year with Aussie celebrity chef Jamie Gannon encouraging hinterland revellers to use local pineapples this Halloween.
The Australian Pineapples ambassador said while the American holiday had grown in popularity in recent years, with orange and black bunting already adorning some local homes, hinterland Halloween fans should carve up a local pineapple these celebrations.
Not only does it provide a tropical twist, but it also has an added bonus of supporting local pineapple growers in meeting their goal of encouraging Aussies to buy two fresh pineapples a year.
“Australian pineapples are 100% grown across Queensland, with key growing regions including the Sunshine Coast hinterland, Wide Bay, and the tropical north, from Mareeba to Mossman,” Jamie said.
Currently, research shows Australian consumers traditionally buy only one fresh pineapple a year, but that’s set to change with a growing trend of adding a tropical twist to Halloween carving.
Tropical Pines General Manager Anthony Dobson launched a special range called Spooky Pines around 2018. Since then, he says he’s seen more and more Aussies get creative with pineapples each October.
“It’s a lot of fun,” Anthony said. “We encourage Aussies to add a carved pineapple to their Halloween celebrations as it provides a quirky twist, which supports local growers during a traditional peak fruit flush.”
“We hope consumers will keep supporting us and remember to pick up a pineapple for Halloween and enjoy a sweet treat of fresh pineapple once they have carved it,” Anthony said.
“Carving a pineapple is easier than you think. Start by choosing a firm, fresh pineapple with a vibrant green crown and golden skin.
“Slice the crown to create an opening, then use a sharp knife and spoon to hollow out the inside, leaving about one to two centimetres of flesh on the sides for stability.
“Draw your spooky face or pattern on the skin and carefully cut it out with a small, serrated knife.
“Carving a pineapple is a fun, sustainable way to celebrate Halloween with a tropical Aussie twist. Not only do you create a unique decoration, but you also enjoy the delicious fruit inside while supporting a Queensland farmer.
