Australia’s peak industry body for vegetable and potato growers, AUSVEG, says it is disappointed its plant-based commodities are being used to add fuel to the fire of vegan activists.

AUSVEG stands strongly alongside all farmers across the country, who are working to ensure all Australians continue to enjoy the bountiful, safe and healthy food that they are entitled to.

AUSVEG CEO James Whiteside backed Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s comments that activists entering properties and businesses illegally and bringing Melbourne’s CBD to a standstill as ‘shameful’.

“It is appalling that vegan activists attack our fellow agriculture producers and their livelihoods,” Mr Whiteside said.

“AUSVEG is supportive of a freedom of choice for Australian consumers, however implicit in this action is an assumption that consumers can’t make an informed decision for themselves. I think this treatment of the community is highly likely to backfire on groups looking to garner public support.”

“The radical views and actions of these individuals is not representative of the community, including those that are vegan, who take full advantage of the high quality fresh produce Australia has to offer, and it’s disappointing that the extremist attitude of a few has led to such aggressive action.”

AUSVEG supports the Prime Minister’s calls for the protestors acting illegally to be met with the full force of the law.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Tyson Cattle, AUSVEG National Manager – Public Affairs
Phone: 03 9882 0277, Mobile: 0427 500 618, Email: tyson.cattle@ausveg.com.au