The New Zealand's trade commission in Korea promoted the nation’s food exports to Korea in Busan on Tuesday.

At an event dubbed the New Zealand Food Connection 2013, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise showcased quintessentially New Zealand favorites including Manuka honey, greenshell mussels and black currants at Paradise Hotel.

Organizers talked up the healthy properties of these New Zealand food exports such as Manuka honey, said to have antibacterial properties, and greenshell mussels containing high levels of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which reduce inflammation.

As for New Zealand’s black currants, they contain higher levels of vitamin C than any other commercially available fruit or vegetable, even oranges. Just half a cup of black currants provides all the vitamin C one needs in a day at only 39 calories.

“New Zealand food and beverage products are seeing long-term growth in Korea as high-quality, safe and delicious products become a priority for shoppers,” said New Zealand’s Trade Commissioner to Korea Ryan Freer, pointing to rising demand for New Zealand beverages and specialty cheeses in Korea. Freer is responsible for promoting trade opportunities and building strategic relationships for New Zealand companies in Korea.

“Our expectation is that the New Zealand Food Connection in Busan will provide an opportunity for Korean consumers here and in other South Gyeongsang Province areas to enjoy a variety of New Zealand food and beverage products. And we’re also happy to see an increased range of New Zealand products in cities such as Busan,” Freer said.

Korea is New Zealand’s fifth-largest export market.

(ephilip2011@heraldcorp.com)