First Nations food and beverage firms backed through Qld native food program 

Three Queensland First Nations businesses have received state government support to develop their products under the Indigenous Native Food Program. 

The program helps First Nations-owned and run businesses commercialise new food products with native food ingredients. 

Queensland innovation minister Stirling Hinchliffe said in a statement on Thursday that, “With the eyes of the world focused on Queensland ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, now’s the perfect time to build a strong, world-class Indigenous food industry.

“The potential to create new commercial First Nations cuisine opportunities at home and overseas is enormous.”    

The companies are FIGJAM & Co, Yaala Sparkling and Beechtree Distilling Co, which are each receiving “targeted support from researchers including consumer led formulation development, process development and practical scale up, packaging selection, end product shelf-life assessment and validation, and consumer and sensory assessment.”

They are developing condiments with traditional native flavours, sparkling water, and beverages with a native twist, respectively.

According to a statement, FIGJAM is being helped with reviewing its condiment range, production methodology, raw materials, costs, supply and labelling. 

The program also offers the opportunity to connect with raw material and equipment suppliers, contract manufacturers, marketers and distributors.

FIGJAM owner Jacob Davidson said, “The team brought together… a scientific background and understanding of testing and standards, and an industry background of manufacturing techniques and knowledge of ingredients.

“Our end product now tastes even better and has an extended use by date.”

More information about the program can be read here.

Picture: credit Figjam & Co