Page 33 - Food&Drink Jan-Feb 2022 magazine

UNLOCKING VALUE
ANP is investing significantly into R&D and has a partnership with the University of Queensland (UQ) researching its functional properties.
“Lemon myrtle is called the queen of the lemon herbs because it contains the highest amount – 98 per cent – of a compound called citrale, an antioxidant with amazing health and functional properties,” he says.
One of the UQ joint projects is looking at whether a combination of native Australian oils is as effective as synthetic preservatives in food products.
“We’re also investing in culinary uses and consumer education; we see that as part of our role as the world’s largest producer. Honestly, every spice rack in Australia should have lemon myrtle on it.
“We’re seeing early signs of the tipping point in consumer awareness and culinary use. Woolworths had lemon myrtle
meringues on the shelves this Christmas, and supermarket roast chickens are featuring it in their seasonings,” he says.
The large spice companies are also showing interest, with Norris pointing out its organic certification and commitment to the highest quality is putting the company on a
sure footing.
“Our focus is on growing our export markets, particularly North America. Organic product in their herbal tea market is driving growth, so we need to make sure we have the volume to service that market.
“They love lemon myrtle; the flavour, aroma, its functional benefits, and that it is caffeine free,” Norris says.
Lemon myrtle has the same antioxidant capabilities as black tea and some preparations of green tea but without the caffeine.
ANP’s focus on consumer education and global markets is set to make this lemon queen a leaderaroundtheworld. ✷
ABOVE: Lemon myrtle can be harvested year round.
OPPOSITE: Notoriously difficult to grow, once established lemon myrtle is a hardy crop.
BELOW: ANP’s new $4 million processing facility takes leaves to packaged product in 12 hours.
✷ SNAPSHOT LEMON MYRTLE
• is native to the pristine, tropical coast of north-eastern Australia;
• is the richest known source of citral, a powerful antioxidant with health and functional benefits;
• has natural antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal properties;
• is harvested for its leaves, which release a fresh and vibrant lemon scent when crushed; and
• can be turned into a dried leaf, powder, essential oil, or hydrosol.
FRESH PRODUCE
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www.foodanddrinkbusiness.com.au | January-February 2022 | Food&Drink business | 33