THE Australian macadamia industry is having some cheeky fun at the expense of fast food giant, McDonald's.
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Jumping on the Australian slang nickname for the restaurant - Maccas - the Australian Macadamia Society has launched a campaign declaring the native nut as "the original macas".
But rather than create animosity with the billion-dollar food outlet, it's called for a joining of forces to incorporate macadamia flavours into its menu.
The campaign has garnered national media attention, particularly in light of the move to park a large billboard in front of McDonald's in St Peters, Sydney.
Queensland macadamia nut grower, Michael McMahon, said even though "Macca's" might be synonymous with the big golden arches, the industry was staking its claim.
"I'm an Australian macadamia grower and a 'Maca' myself and I'm putting a call out to all Aussies to join forces in celebrating the Original Macas," Mr McMahon said.
"Aussies can all show some love and support for our local growers by grabbing a bag of Australian macadamias from their nearest supermarket or store."
To further fuel the potential collaboration, the AMS has teamed up with Masterchef alumni, Mindy Woods, to create two native infused recipes, the Original Macas Burger, a native spiced beef and kangaroo patty featuring macadamias, and a Mylkshake, a drink based on macadamia "mylk" .
Ms Woods said she has always loved macadamias and incorporating them into recipes.
"Their versatility allows me to experiment with them in new ways and infuse their robust flavour profile into my cooking," she said.
"The native credentials of macadamia nuts also hold a special place in my heart. As a First Nations woman, I seize every chance to share the significance of native and indigenous foods.
"The connection they foster with my ancestors and culture makes native food incredibly meaningful to me.
"I'm thrilled to be working with Australian Macadamias on the Original Macas menu, to shine a light on native foods and inspire Australians to embark on their own discovery of the wonders of native ingredients."
McDonald's Australia was contacted for comment.
The macadamia industry could presently do with a boost as reduced global demand due to COVID lockdowns and a rapidly increasing supply from countries like China has seen the crop's value estimated to have dropped from $183 million in 2021-22 to $110 million in the financial year just gone, according to Qld Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (QDAF) data.
Prices have gone from record highs of $6.60 a kilogram nut-in-shell in 2020 to $1.70 this year - a price not seen since 2008.
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