It’s a pretty hard job… travelling the world sampling the finest local produce each region has to offer. But someone’s got to do it, and Natasha Blok (left) is glad it’s her.
Natasha visited South Australia in March as part of Sainsbury’s Taste the World Scheme. The Scheme involves selected Sainsbury's Food Product Technologist graduates travelling around the world for 12 months, visiting various suppliers and partners of Sainsbury’s.
The program is designed to encourage students to study Food Science, in an ever-competitive market with falling numbers of people studying Food Science at university. Natasha is the third successful graduate to date, and the only graduate selected for 2008-2009.
Nathasha made the most of her South Australian visit, spending time in the Eyre Peninsula before heading to Adelaide and visiting the South Australian Food Centre, Regency TAFE, Primary Industries & Resources SA (PIRSA), South Australian Research & Development Institute (SARDI) and Food Adelaide. She also toured the Adelaide Hills.
"I was introduced to a number of local food and beverage businesses, including Alaska Foods, Mitani Products, Beerenberg, Coopers Brewery, Aqa Oyster, Safcol, Cleanseas Tuna and Brew Boys."
She also had the chance to sample local iconic products including Mountain Fresh Juices, and Nippys. Natasha said her impression of the South Australian food industry is one of quality.
"There is a real focus on quality. Especially with seafood in the Eyre Peninsula with clean waters and little rain to muddy them, the reputation for fish and seafood speaks for itself."
"And I saw a lot of innovation going on, which is always good to see."
Natasha said while many SA food products have alternatives worldwide,
"to see the focus given to quality and the local pride was impressive. There is a great diversity of regions in South Australia, and each seems to have its own heritage and stories. I think this should be marketed more to get the word out!"