Tasty bananas resistant to Panama TR4 disease are being developed by researchers at the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF).
This follows consumer research that has identified four new varieties of the Goldfinger banana with the potential to satisfy both consumer and grower needs.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries, Mark Furner said work had been going on since 2016 to unlock the flavour of the Goldfinger banana variety which was known to be resistant to key Panama disease strains, including TR4, but had limited taste appeal.
“Earlier this year 234 consumers took part in a series of tastings to assess five new varieties of Goldfinger bananas with four of the varieties scoring equally well with existing commercial varieties,” Mr Furner said.
“Tasters liked the mild, balanced aroma, flavour and texture of selections which were equally popular among those who prefer either the Cavendish or Lady Finger varieties.”
Consumer and Sensory Scientist at the DAF, Simoné Moller said more than 1,000 bananas were tasted during the trial at DAF’s specialised sensory facility in Coopers Plains.
“Overall, the reviews were positive, but well summed up by one taster who described the Goldfinger bananas as a ‘super healthy and delicious snack’ that they would look forward to eating,” Ms Moller said.
“Feedback from the tastings will help DAF’s plant breeders continue their trials to produce commercially successful Goldfinger banana varieties,” she said.
Mr Furner said consumer acceptance of new the varieties of bananas meant Queensland was a step closer to protecting the State’s banana growers from Panama TR4 disease.
“Although commercialisation of any new varieties is still some years away, the signs are promising and these Goldfinger varieties shape as a win-win for growers and consumers,” he said.
