Fermentation: Preserving Food and Reducing Waste in South Africa

Written by

Siyabonga Mngoma

Published on

August 28, 2024
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Articles, Farming, Food and Diet, Healthy Living
Variety of fermented vegetables like pickles, kimchi, and mixed veggies preserved in jars at a local market, showcasing traditional food preservation techniques. Photo by little plant on Unsplash

Food Waste in South Africa: A Growing Concern

A significant amount of food waste in South Africa is generated in the farming and retail sectors. This issue stems from poor distribution channels, the price of fresh produce, and the expectation of abundance in supermarkets. The dysfunctional food system contributes to this problem, affecting both conventional and organic farms.

Challenges Faced by Organic Farms

Organic farms in Johannesburg face unique challenges due to their reliance on a niche market. As a result, they often experience losses in harvest, reduced farmer incomes, and increased food waste. This situation highlights the need for better food preservation methods and waste reduction strategies.

Growing Demand for Organic Produce

Despite these challenges, there’s a growing trend in South Africa’s food industry. More restaurants are sourcing organic fresh produce for their meals, driven by customer demand for quality food based on health, environmental, and social factors. Most of the available local organic produce is grown by small-scale farmers, emphasizing the importance of supporting these producers.

Fermentation: The Best Way to Preserve Food

Fermentation stands out as one of the best ways to preserve food, offering a solution to the food waste problem. This ancient method has been used for centuries to store food surpluses through a process of acidification, usually involving lactic acid.

Freshly preserved cucumbers in a jar, showcasing food preservation techniques by Abundance Wholesome Foods.

Fermented Food Benefits

Today, numerous studies highlight the benefits of fermented foods. These include improved digestion, enhanced nutrient absorption, and a potential boost to the immune system. Incorporating fermented foods into our diets could be particularly beneficial as we transition from winter to spring, providing that extra immune support many of us need.

Our friends at Jozi Uncooked, Johannesburg’s first raw and vegan food company are busy preparing some delicious ferments for us. We currently stock their fermented beverages in our Abundance Wholesome Foods store.

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