13 Aug 2012 --- In light of McDonald’s announcing a new lamb burger to feature on its menu, AUSVEG has encouraged the leading fast food chain to create a burger where the vegetables are the hero - made from healthy and locally sourced Australian vegetables.

“At a time where there is an alarming rise in obesity levels in Australia, AUSVEG believes it would be more beneficial for the fast food chain to focus on creating a burger which features 100 per cent Australian grown produce for both the salad and veggie patty,” said AUSVEG spokesperson Courtney Burger.

AUSVEG is the National Peak Industry Body representing Australia’s 9,000 vegetable and potato growers.

“By offering Australian consumers the option to have a nutritious burger made with all produce sourced locally, it would not only benefit the waistline of Australians but also support the domestic vegetable industry,” said Miss Burger.

“Introducing a range of burgers that contains 100 per cent Aussie salad with the option of also having a 100 per cent Aussie veggie patty would be a huge step forward in that it would provide consumers with the option to choose a genuinely nutritious meal while also giving back to our local growers,” said Miss Burger.

The soon to be available McLamburger will cost customers a hefty $7.95 and contain over 40 grams of fat.

“Currently only 6 per cent of Australians eat enough fruit and vegetables every day according to the Australia Government report Australia’s Health 2012, and a huge factor for people not eating right is they simply don’t have the time. If there were fast food options that included more vegetables, this may be a way to help boost the health of Australians,” said Miss Burger.

For a balanced diet it is recommended Australians eat five servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit every day.

“Teaming up an iconic food chain with education about vegetables to young children would be a positive move for this country, because early exposure to vegetables is crucial in forming healthy eating habits,” said Miss Burger.

“We encourage all fast food chains to look at their menus and revaluate where they can include more Australian grown vegetables, because we have some of the freshest and healthiest produce in the world and we need to support our growers and keep jobs in the country,” said Miss Burger.