THE APPLE CAMPAIGN.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LX, Issue 96, 21 March 1940, Page 6

THE APPLE CAMPAIGN.

Because of the war New Zealand’s apple exporters, who normally contribute largely to the country’s export income, are unable to send their crop overseas. This is a circumstance to which the Government has directed its attention, but even with State assistance the orchardist’s position is an unenviable one, yet he is accepting it philosophically as part of the war responsibility. To the general public, however, there is another important side to the subject, and that is the drive at present in progress to stimulate home consumption of this highly beneficial fruit. Apples should be eaten freely this autumn and winter for millions of cases are being released at prices which give everyone an opportunity to benefit as well as contribute their share toward meeting an abnormal situation. There is little need to stress the quality of the New Zealand fruit —it has gained a reputation in a market overseas which is highly discriminating, and in the face of very keen competition from other exporting countries. The very best of this fruit is being offered. In the past it has been stressed by medical authorities and specialists in dietetics that the apple forms too little a part of human food consumption, and the opportunity arises now to remedy any deficiency that may exist. The State has guaranteed a price to the growers for their crop; if that price is not made good by a clearance of the crop it is fhc taxpayer who will have to make up the shortage in the long run. By buying more apples to-day he is not only helping the fruitgrower to clear stocks in season before the next crop comes along, but is preventing, perhaps, a heavy call on his own pocket. lire campaign therefore deserves encouragement no matter how it is viewed.