Sugar, Preserving Jars In Good Supply

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29725, 19 January 1962, Page 12

Sugar, Preserving Jars In Good Supply

(From Our Grocery Correspondent)

With heavy consignments of stone fruits to Canterbury from Central Otago and Nelson, the preserving season is well under way. Local crops of stone fruits, tomatoes, and other fruits for bottling are ripening fast. Grocers have been building up stocks of preserving jars, sugar, and the other requirements for bottling and preserving. Coastal shipping has been regular this year, and there seems to be no likelihood of a sugar shortage such as has hindered preserving on occasion in the past. Reports from Christchurch grocers and wholesalers this week indicate a heavy demand for bottling and preserving requirements. Many housewives are apparently putting down large quantities of fruit this year. Canned Fruit.—Quotations are being received from South Africa and the Item of most Interest is the price for canned apricots. These prices have always been considerably lower than New Zealand prices, but because of Import restrictions only small quantities have been Imported for some time. The Boz pack could be of Interest to Importers who still hold a small balance of their fruit

licences. The toz can eould retail at la 3d approximately. Canned Tomatoes.—Stocks are diminishing of canned tomatoes which in some cases have been carried over from several previous season;. Reports from Hastings indicate that the crops in that area are extremely good. If good weather is experienced from now till canning time, an exceptionally good canned crop can be expected. Instant Coffee The demand for instant coffee is waning a little and the major packers have made substantial deliveries to the trade throughout New Zealand. Dates.—Last year It was thought that the date crop was a good one and there would be sufficient supplies for the market. Now the latest advice states that crops will be short In the Persian Gulf area. Those requiring a second shipment are warned to place their orders promptly. Canned Peaches.—l-ast season was a bad one for canning peaches and as a result most orders were reduced from the J. Wattle Cannery in Hastings where most of the peaches are grown. At the present time the peach crop is In splendid order and if conditions remain suitable a large pack is expected. This crop could still be spoilt bv rain, to which peaches are very susceptible at this time.

Mayne Nickless.—The company enjoyed trading results In the half-year ended December 31 almost equal to the corresponding half-year In the previous financial year, directors say In their interim report. Turnover throughout Australia had almost recovered to late 1900 levels, except In services for motor and allied industries. The overall profit earned by the company was considered satisfactory and indicates adequate cover to service increased capital. directors say.—N.Z.P.A.