Australian lavender growers are concerned that imported lavender oil, often watered down, is affecting their market and urging consumers to be aware of product origins.
Australian lavender growers are raising concerns over the quality of lavender oil entering the market through imports. They claim that many of these imported oils are diluted and do not match the purity of locally produced oils. With only about 100 lavender growers across Australia, the producers argue that the cheaper imports are pricing them out of the market, making it essential for consumers to recognize the difference in quality between imported and Australian lavender oil.
The Viljoen family, who have been cultivating Grosso lavender in Milthorpe, Central West NSW, for over two decades, exemplify the challenges faced by domestic growers. With a modest operation yielding approximately 10 liters of oil annually from 6,000 plants, they emphasize the meticulous process of distillation that ensures the highest quality. Despite the rich history of lavender cultivation in Australia, dating back to the 1850s, consumers are increasingly gravitating toward imported options because of lower prices, often overlooking the potential drawbacks in quality and safety.
The lavender growers' association is urging consumers to scrutinize the origins of lavender oil products before purchasing, advocating for support of local growers. They underscore the essential benefits of pure lavender oil, which is renowned for its stress-relief and sleep-improvement properties, and is widely used in cleaning products. As the market dynamics shift with the influx of imported goods, the future of Australian lavender producers hinges on consumer awareness and preference for homegrown quality over cost-effective alternatives.
