.png?w=520&h=253)
As more Australians embrace the Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, on 17 September this year, vibrant celebrations extend beyond Chinese, Vietnamese, and other Asian communities. This traditional lunar calendar event celebrates family reunions, harvest, and thanksgiving, elevating mooncakes—a major festive food—to prominence as a cherished choice for personal and corporate gifts.
A Multicultural Gifting Idea
The Mid-Autumn Festival can be seen as an "Asian Thanksgiving," a time for families to reunite and express gratitude. Mooncakes symbolize goodwill and tradition, making them a thoughtful gift, especially for Asian-background business associates, families, and friends.
Jason Qian, Category Manager at eBest, Australia’s leading online Asian grocer, notes that classic varieties like lotus seed paste, with or without salted egg yolk, and red bean paste remain popular.
"It's important to check the ingredients, as some mooncakes contain eggs, nuts, or meat, which can accommodate various dietary needs," Mr. Qian advises.
Innovative mooncake offerings now include matcha fillings, reduced sugar, and vegan options. "Consider opting for reduced sugar or snow skin mooncakes," Qian suggests. Snow skin mooncakes, often featuring fruit, nuts, or cream, are typically lower in calories and fat compared to traditional versions.
Buy Mooncakes Locally
Australia's biosecurity laws prohibit importing mooncakes containing ingredients like egg yolk, meat, or seeds. Travelers to Asia and senders should declare all food products when entering Australia to avoid fines or confiscation.
eBest urges the community to be aware of these regulations and consider purchasing mooncakes locally. "Here at eBest, we've sourced a variety of mooncakes that comply with biosecurity regulations, ensuring fresh and reliable products, and we deliver mooncakes across the nation," says Qian.
"For Sydneysiders, we also offer mooncakes made by local Chinese restaurants and food manufacturers, supporting local artisans and businesses."
"With increased deliveries expected before the Moon Festival, we are committed to providing our customers with confidence and convenience, ensuring they can enjoy mooncakes and celebrate the Moon Festival hassle-free," Qian says.
Mooncakes 101 x Nine Mooncakes Worth Trying in Australia
Or start your mooncake order now!
