It is 1929. As first light gilds tall eucalyptus trees, the lean frame of a man in his late fifties can be seen surveying a vast sweep of land near Duiwelskloof in Northern Transvaal, South Africa.
The hundreds of hectares on the eastern slopes of the gentle Houtbos Mountains are sadly neglected. The once rich soil is eroding and mountain streams are drying up. But as he crosses the farm and timberland, there is energy and joy in his stride. An energy born of vision; a joy born of deep love for the land. That same afternoon Dr Hans Merensky buys Westfalia Estate. It takes 10 years to transform the Estate into a verdant Eden with fertile soil, healthy crops, lofty timber and abundant streams.
Growing from these humble beginnings Westfalia Estate has grown to form the centre of one of the largest single avocado suppliers in the world – Westfalia Fruit Products.
"This country has given me so much, that I am too happy to be allowed to help it in some way, and I am grateful to be able to give back to it a fraction of what it has given to me..." - Opening of the Hans Merensky Library (University of Pretoria).
Westfalia specialises mainly in avocado production, as well as the processing and marketing thereof. Related products, i.e. avocado oil and guacamole – both supplied to Woolworths – are processed in Westfalia factories outside Tzaneen and Howick.
In addition, we also do Ripe-and-Ready avocados, mangoes and litchis, as well as fresh juice and dried mango for Woolworths. Westfalia believes in sustainability, and is part of the Farming For The Future initiative.
Westfalia Avocado Oils
Westfalia Avocado Oil is made only from choice quality, locally grown Hass avocados. Westfalia’s range of Plain (both regular and organic), avocado oil, as well as natural Garlic, Lemon, Chilli, Basil and Mediterranean (herbs) infused avocado oils, offers a healthy and delicious option for everyday food preparation.
Westfalia’s Avocado Oils are naturally cholesterol free, and contains mono-unsaturated-fatty acids (the good fats). It also has anti-oxidants such as Vitamin E and Omegas 3, 6 and 9. And because it is part of a healthy eating/lifestyle plan, it is endorsed by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of South Africa.
Avocado oil is versatile and delicious. With a high smoke point of around 250°C, it is ideal for cooking, baking, drizzling, dipping, frying and roasting – Even braai-ing! It is an excellent substitute for other culinary oils, butter and margarine. It is also suitable for vegetarians. Westfalia Avocado Oil, in 250ml bottles, is available in major retail stores – Just look in the cooking oils aisle. It is certified Halaal and Kosher.
Westfalia Avocado Guacamole
Westfalia Guacamole is 98% real avocado – a natural product derived from the flesh of ripe Hass avocados. Carefully blended with a unique selection of herbs and spices, Westfalia Guacamole is available in Original and Spicy. Westfalia Guacamole is flash frozen to preserve its many health benefits – The same goodness associated with Westfalia Avocado Oil.
Guacamole is most commonly known as an accompaniment with Mexican dishes i.e. nachos and tortillas. It’s uses are extremely versatile, however, and Westfalia Guacamole can be used for burgers and sandwiches, wraps and rolls, terrines and mousses, savoury tarts and quiches, cocktails and soups – Too many to mention!
Westfalia Guacamole is also endorsed by The Heart and Stroke Foundation of South Africa, and certified both Halaal and Kosher. It is suitable for vegetarians. Both products are available at major retailers in two pack sizes – 200g tubs (fresh) and 500g boxes (frozen). Look for it in the fridge and freezer sections.
Try this delicious recipe using Westfalia Avocado Oil for a healthy and versatile snack.
Westfalia Fruit Products