Apparent fruit and vegetable consumption in Australia - Data and Analysis (1961-2034)

IBISWorld forecasts apparent fruit and vegetable consumption to contract by 1.2% in 2026-27 to total 237.1 kilograms per capita. Australians are expected to consume less fruit over the year, while vegetable consumption remains relatively stable. A modest increase in health consciousness is projected for the year, supporting consumption. However, cost-of-living pressures are expected to weigh more heavily on consumption. Higher interest rates and persistent inflation, particularly in 2026-27, are harming household purchasing power. The Iran-Israel-US conflict in the Middle East has also disrupted supplies of key agricultural inputs like fertiliser, contributing to higher fruit and vegetable prices.Fluctuations in fresh fruit and vegetable prices can weigh on consumption. Over the past five years, both instances of floods and droughts have led to supply constraints, placing upward pressure on prices. Price changes are almost always supply-driven, with a drop in supply typically leading to more suffocating prices. Consequently, consumers may choose to reduce their purchases of a particular type of fruit or vegetable when prices become too high. Sometimes, demand-side factors can influence consumption. This has primarily been seen over the two years to 2026-27, where the cost-of-living crisis reduced Australians' consumption of fruit and vegetables. Overall increases in household disposable income can mitigate the effect of price growth on fruit and vegetable consumption.Fruit and vegetable consumption has risen marginally over the past five years. The Russia-Ukraine conflict tightened the fertiliser supply, threatening supply chains. This flowed through to supply constraints in the food retailing industries. Price growth among many fruits and vegetables has discouraged their consumption. However, an easing of international trade and weather conditions has aided fruit and vegetable consumption recovery. In addition, growing numbers of vegans and vegetarians in Australia have contributed to consumption over the past five years. Furthermore, a rise in health consciousness has supported the amount of fruit and vegetables consumed. Overall, IBISWorld forecasts apparent fruit and vegetable consumption to rise at an annual compound rate of 0.1% over the five years through 2026-27.