FOLLOW OUR FOOD - From growers to grocers. The journey of dinner
What does it really take to get fresh food from WA growers to your dinner table? From horse-and-cart beginnings to state-of-the-art, climate-controlled trading floors, the world of fresh produce has undergone an incredible transformation — and few people have witnessed that journey more closely than Damon Watling, Director of Quality Produce International (QPI) and owner of Heavenly Strawberries.In this episode, Kate and Tracey head deep into WA’s fresh-produce supply chain to uncover the unseen work, relationships, challenges and innovations that shape the food we buy every day. Damon shares how 500+ pre-orders roll in overnight, why grower relationships and seasonal forecasting matter more than ever, and how consumers’ stated values often differ from what actually ends up in their baskets.We also explore:✨ How WA growers are expanding into new growing regions✨ Why QPI staff specialise in areas like citrus, berries and dates ✨ Surprising truths about transparency, labelling and supply chains ✨ Insight into working with the major supermarkets ✨ And why quality produce still starts with people, not systems.Plus — Damon tells the beautiful origin story behind Heavenly Strawberries, WA’s most beloved branded berry, and the care, sugar-testing and hand-packing that earns it its name.RECIPE OF THE WEEKAsparagus and Ricotta Tart — A delicious recipe to dive into during our WA asparagus season. Find the recipe via - https://www.kateflowerfood.com.au/recipesABOUT OUR GUESTDamon WatlingDirector, Quality Produce International | Owner, Heavenly StrawberriesDamon Watling has spent his career at the heart of Western Australia’s fresh produce industry, building strong connections between growers, markets, and consumers. As Director of Quality Produce International (QPI), Damon plays a pivotal role in ensuring WA families, restaurants, and retailers have access to the very best fruit and vegetables—sourced with care, handled with precision, and delivered with integrity.More on Quality Produce International - qpi.net.auJOIN THE CONVERSATIONStay curious and get involved! Follow us on Instagram → @curiouscookspodcast Reach out →
[email protected] Discover more via our webpage → https://www.kateflowerfood.com.au/thecuriouscooksSPONSOR THANKSThis podcast is proudly supported by Urban Forager — Australia’s only certified organic stock concentrate. Shop the range and use code CURIOUS20 for 20% off aturbanforager.com.auHOST INFORMATIONKate FlowerFood stylist, recipe developer, and storyteller, Kate has spent over 30 years in the food industry—and the past 15 bringing dishes to life for some of Australia’s most loved brands. From the farm gate to the family table, she’s passionate about the journey of every ingredient, and how understanding that journey changes the way we cook, eat, and connect. Kate is the author of three printed cookbooks celebrating local producers under the banner A Local Table and is driven to discover the best ways we can eat for both enjoyment and health. Instagram @kateflowerfood + Facebook @kateflowerfood Tracey CotterellA professionally trained UK chef turned Perth culinary icon, Tracey has spent decades teaching more than 80,000 h
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