Group supplies local produce

The Peninsula Environment Group Food Network is encouraging more local residents to take advantage of locally-grown and affordable organic produce.

Group member Ms Zainem Ibrahim said organic food was healthy and environmentally friendly but the extra costs often stopped people from "going organic".

"If you're passing the Woy Woy Environment Centre on Blackwall Rd, every second Tuesday afternoon, you'll find it bustling with activity as members of the local Peninsula Environment Group food co-operative sort and pack their fortnightly delivery of organic fruit and vegetables," Ms Ibrahim said.

"This food has not come from a shop or Sydney markets, but has come direct from organic farmers on Mangrove Mountain.

"It's picked just days before - and sometimes even on the same day."

Ms Ibrahim said the non-profit community group was looking to make organic and chemical-free food available at similar prices to non-organic food.

"Buying direct from local farms means the farmers can still get a fair price but we pay less," Ms Ibrahim said.

"What's more, the produce is normally much fresher than in the shops, which means it tastes better and has far more nutrients.

"And there's less unnecessary packaging and less food miles and greenhouse gas emissions getting it to your plate."

The food network group also organises quarterly orders of organic dried foods (such as rice, flour, beans, nuts and so on) at wholesale prices.

Members of the food co-operative pay a small annual fee of $25.

"Everyone is also expected to take on a small task to make the group work, such as a couple of hours a fortnight helping sort the food delivery," Ms Ibrahim said.

"It actually makes it a great social network and means you get to know other group members."

The Peninsula Environment Group Food Network is part of a growing movement of local food groups, including the Food Integrity Group in Ourimbah and the Bouddi Food Group in Killcare.

For more information about becoming a member, visit www.peg.org.au or call 4342 6589.

Press release, 14 May 2010 Rhiannon Lovell, PEG Food Network