A new multi-industry program is being launched to put Australian-grown avocados, potatoes and vegetables more firmly into the health conversations that shape what people eat, how they shop and how fresh produce is understood in clinical, education and public health settings.  

The Healthy Horticulture program, funded by Hort Innovation, will equip healthcare professionals, educators, and public health authorities with credible, evidence-led resources that make it easier to talk about the role of fresh produce in healthy Australian diets.  

At a time when Australians are navigating fast-moving nutrition trends, cost-of-living pressures and persistent confusion about what “healthy” looks like in practice, the program is designed to cut through with practical, science-backed information about everyday fresh produce.  

The program will bring together shared infrastructure, including a central Healthy Horticulture brand and content hub, a consolidated health professional database and core communication channels, while still delivering tailored messages for the participating avocado, fresh potato and vegetable industries.

Anthony Kachenko, General Manager Production and Sustainability R&D at Hort Innovation, explained why the project matters for both growers and the wider community: “Health professionals are trusted voices in the food choices Australians make every day, so giving them credible, practical and up-to-date information about fresh produce is a powerful way to support healthier diets and stronger demand for Australian horticulture.”

“This program is about taking the science we already have, translating it into tools health professionals can use, and making sure fruit and vegetables are part of the conversations that influence behaviour and public sentiment. For growers, that means investing in long-term demand by helping more Australians understand the value of what they produce.”

By combining industry effort through one coordinated program, Healthy Horticulture aims to reduce duplication, maximise reach and support a more united voice for Australian fresh produce.  

The project will be delivered by Bite Communications, supported by scientific partner FOODiQ Global, with industry working groups for avocados, potatoes and vegetables providing oversight to ensure industry priorities are reflected in program planning and outputs.