Peas Growth and Production in Australia (2020)

Overview of Peas

Pea, (Pisum sativum), also called garden pea, herbaceous annual plant in the family Fabaceae, grown virtually worldwide for its edible seeds. This vegetable can be bought fresh, canned, or frozen, and dried. Moreover, they are commonly used in soups. Some varieties, including sugar and snow peas, produce pods that are edible and are eaten raw or cooked like green beans. They are popular in East Asian cuisines. 

While the origins of domesticated peas have not been definitely determined, this is one of the oldest cultivated crops. The wild plant is native to the Mediterranean region, and ancient remains dating to the late Neolithic Period have been found in the Middle East. European colonization introduced the crop to the New World and other regions throughout the globe. In the mid-1800s, this vegetable found in a monastery garden in Austria was famously used by the monk Gregor Mendel in his pioneering studies of the nature of heredity.

Statistics

As of June 2020:

1. $58.1 million was the value of the fresh supply of peas. Out of this $51.8 million was distributed into retail and $16.3 million was saved for food service.
2. The supply per capita was 252 grams, based on the volume supplied.
3. Approximately, 29,104 t produced and valued at $59.2 million. Out of this total amount, 80% was sent to process.
4. Nearly 28% of Australians bought peas, hence, buying almost 383 grams per trip.

Major Production Areas

Peas, like potatoes, are grown in almost all states across Australia. However, the majority of the production occurs in Victoria and Queensland. Nonetheless, the areas where they are grown the most are the Goulburn Valley, the Perth region and North-West Tasmania.