Australian company Nutrafruit is turning imperfect Queen Garnet plums into health products as part of a science-driven approach to food manufacturing that aims to reduce waste and create new value from agricultural by-products.
The company uses bruised or sunburnt plums that do not meet supermarket retail standards to produce health food powders, drinks and other nutritional products under its PurQ brand, according to a government news release.
The plums are freeze-dried to help preserve colour, flavour and nutrients, allowing waste fruit to be repurposed into wellness ingredients rather than discarded.
Queen Garnet plums are grown in Australia for their high antioxidant content, and research and scientific testing are supporting their potential health benefits.
Nutrafruit said the process reflects the idea that there is “no such thing as a bad fruit,” as it seeks to convert fruit that is difficult to sell through traditional supply chains into higher-value products.
Nutrafruit said its approach supports circular economy principles by reducing food waste, reusing agricultural resources and generating additional income opportunities for Australian growers.
The method aligns with the country’s broader sustainability and manufacturing goals under the Australia’s Circular Economy Framework, which promotes resource efficiency and the development of new production pathways.
The company works with growers, research organisations and partners in the government sector to develop natural health products that are supported by scientific evidence.
According to the Australian Government, such collaboration is intended to help strengthen circular supply chains while supporting innovation in food and manufacturing industries.
Nutrafruit said its model demonstrates how agricultural by-products can be converted into commercially viable ingredients, helping reduce losses across the food system while creating new product categories.
Further supplements and health products using plum-derived ingredients are expected to be developed as the company expands its manufacturing and research efforts.
