Experience Tasmania, The Next Untapped Food Frontier
Here in the states, when you think of Tasmania, you’re probably more likely to be reminded of a cartoon character rather than the actual place. Even more odd, the Tasmanian Devil cartoon character was named after an actual animal that looks completely different. It makes you wonder how much we really know about Tasmania.
Did you know that it’s the world’s 26th largest island? Tasmania also has some of the cleanest air in the world which helps produce pristine rainwater and super fertile soil. And in addition to devils, Tasmania is rich with a wide assortment of native animal and plant species, familiar and unfamiliar. Also, products from Tasmania benefit from a culture and industry that’s rooted in environmental sustainability, quality control and strict biosecurity.
Experience Tasmania is a campaign that was created to highlight the unique treasures Tasmania has to offer the food and beverage world. Presented with a challenge during the pandemic, the state was forced to think of a new way to trade and export. Through Experience Tasmania, a network of potential customers and top chefs were able to enjoy some of the Australian state’s leading producers and produce. This has helped a growing appreciation towards Tasmanian gourmet products.
Already world renowned for its meat, seafood and dairy, in recent years, the demand for Tasmanian products has expanded to include wine, liquor and produce. This has further solidified the island state’s reputation for quality. A strong demand for Tasmanian imports held fast even during the covid-19 crisis. Besides the novelty of trying imported foods, another attractive quality is that all Tasmanian products are GMO free and do not use hormone probitants or antibiotics to encourage artificial growth.
If you’re into quality meats, Cape Grim Beef comes from one of the purest environments for raising grass-fed cattle. They have a collective of beef-farmers that are committed to ethical practices and even have a third-party auditor to ensure top quality.
Champagne lovers will no doubt enjoy Jansz Tasmania, respectfully distinguished as “sparkling wine”. Considered a pioneer in luxury sparkling wine, Jansz is handcrafted and originates from the heart of Pipers River in Tasmania’s Tamar Valley.
Speaking of wine, it’s only right that I mention King Island Dairy, one of Australia’s favorite cheese brands. King Island is located in Bass Strait, between Tasmania and mainland Australia. They have award winning cheese that’s sourced from a handful of local farmers, really a perfect wine compliment.
Another quality product is considered the “Wagyu of the Sea” due to its juicy marbling. The ocean trout from Petuna, Tasmania’s leading fishery, is one of many quality fishes offered. The fishery has been around for 70 years, practices sustainable aquaculture, and maintains its commitment to respecting the longevity of the natural environment.
As the world gradually returns to normal, it will be interesting to see more people become further exposed to Tasmania’s food frontier and culture. These products and more are increasingly available from local US distributors, retailers, and restaurants around the nation.
If you’re a commercial buyer or distributor and interested in Tasmanian products, you can contact Trade Tasmania directly to get your hands on some.
