Blog #8: Kiwifruit in the Kitchen:

Kiwifruit in the Kitchen: From Asad’s Orchards to Your Table When shoppers see a kiwifruit at their local market, they may not realize it could have traveled from an orchard in Bay of Plenty, cared for by Asad Horticulture Ltd and its founder, Mr Asaduzzaman. While top-grade fruits head to international markets, many remain in New Zealand, becoming a staple in kitchens across the country. Grade C Fruits: Local and Affordable Not every fruit meets export standards. Slight variations in size, shape, or color may relegate a kiwifruit to Grade C. But that doesn’t mean it lacks flavor or nutrition. At Asad Horticulture, Grade C fruits are sold locally at kitchen markets for around NZD $8 per kilogram (about 20 pieces). This makes kiwifruit affordable for families, students, and everyday consumers. Mohammad Asaduzzaman believes this approach serves both worlds: top-quality exports for global buyers, and budget-friendly fruits for locals. Nutrition and Health Benefits Kiwifruit is not just delicious—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. A single fruit contains: • Vitamin C: More than an orange, boosting immunity. • Dietary fiber: Supporting digestion. • Antioxidants: Fighting free radicals. • Potassium: Helping regulate blood pressure. When New Zealand families buy from local markets, they’re not only getting affordable produce but also protecting their health. Culinary Uses of Kiwifruit Grade C kiwifruits from Asad Horticulture often end up in kitchens, where creativity takes over: • Breakfast bowls with yogurt and granola. • Smoothies blended with bananas and spinach. • Desserts like pavlova topped with sliced kiwi. • Salads mixing sweet kiwi with savory greens. These versatile uses make kiwifruit a household favorite. A Link Between Farmers and Families By selling locally, Asad Horticulture Ltd creates a direct bond between farmers and consumers. Families eating kiwi at breakfast know they are supporting local agriculture while enjoying world-class fruit. Reducing Food Waste Another benefit of selling Grade C fruits locally is waste reduction. Instead of discarding fruits that don’t meet export standards, Asad ensures they reach local kitchens, aligning with his vision of sustainability. The Human Side of Farming For Asad, kiwifruit is more than a commodity—it’s a connection. He often says that when someone eats a kiwi grown in his orchards, they are tasting not just fruit but years of care, dedication, and resilience. Conclusion From orchards in Bay of Plenty to plates in kitchens, Asad Horticulture ensures that kiwifruit is accessible, nutritious, and sustainable. Whether sold at local markets or exported worldwide, each fruit tells the story of Mr Asaduzzaman—a farmer who built a bridge between global trade and local families.