Australians are eating more pork than before, research shows. Traditionally considered a lesser meat, years of TV shows that's put red meat at the heart of its programming has influenced more Aussies to eat it – a phenomenon that's associated with the so-called "MasterChef Effect".

Australians may love their meat, but they are not yet sold on the idea of lab-grown alternatives, with just half saying they would try it. It ticks all the boxes for environmental concerns, animal welfare and even taste, but the one final hurdle to overcome is the mystery of the science itself.

Food is an intrinsic part of culture Down Under, and both domestic and international chefs are now embracing Australia’s indigenous ingredients. Helping them obtain hard-to-source produce is Playing With Fire, an online grocer that sells and delivers a range of native fruits, nuts and spices.

Just off Melbourne’s über-cool Brunswick Street, hipsters are queuing outside cult café Smith & Deli. But while the menu might be based on New York-style cuisine – pastrami sandwiches and home-cooked lasagne – here, things are a little different. Everything sold at Smith & Deli is 100% vegan.