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Loblaw's Naturally Imperfect apple line expanding in Annapolis Valley
COLDBROOK - It's what's on the inside that counts, even with produce.
Ashley Thompson · Assistant Managing Editor, SaltWire Weeklies | Posted: March 20, 2016, midnight | Updated: Sept. 30, 2017, 12:51 a.m. | 3 Min Read
Scotian Gold Co-operative Ltd. sales director Dennis MacPherson holds up a couple of bags of no name Naturally Imperfect apples.
Locally grown apples that would typically have been cast aside as misshapen or discoloured are making the cut more often with Loblaw's no name Naturally Imperfect produce line expanding to the Annapolis Valley.
Meghan Dixon, a registered dietitian at Atlantic Superstore locations throughout the Annapolis Valley, says the Naturally Imperfect apples will be up to 30 per cent cheaper than the more traditional brands.
"It's a great way to offer healthier options at a lower cost," she says, noting that select Your Independent Grocer and Save Easy locations will also carry the Naturally Imperfect line.
The apples will be sourced from Kings County's own Scotian Gold. And, while the produce is being sold at a reduced price, Dixon says that's not the only reason consumers should consider this locally grown product.
"The nutrients are always going to be in a higher concentration (with local produce). They don't have time to degrade, so you're getting a higher quality product," she says.
Dixon says reducing food waste by finding creative ways to ensure every apple in the bag is used is another way consumers can make the most of their food dollars.
"Even though it is technically imperfect, they might just be misshapen or smaller but they do still have the same nutritional value and the great taste as produce that looks perfect."
Dennis MacPherson, Scotian Gold's director of sales, says the move toward selling more less-than-perfect apples means less waste, and more return, for producers.
"Now we've got more options to pack and sell, and our growers have more options."
Scotian Gold is a Coldbrook-based tree fruit co-operative representing 55 growers.
"Loblaws putting faith in investing in that brand is going to create awareness of products that have been there for years which, in turn, will really help us out, and help out our growers too," says MacPherson.
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