New Food Safety Standards for growers of berries, leafy green vegetables, and melons will come into effect from 12 February 2025, maintaining the state's reputation as a responsible producer. Food Standards Australia and New Zealand introduced the new food safety and compliance standards in 2022 to the National Food Standards Code.
Agriculture Victoria Horticulture Standards Engagement Officer, Emily Scott said the standards will assist in lifting food safety standards across the industry.
"We are working closely with industry bodies and growers to support businesses implementing the new standards with a timely awareness and engagement campaign. Current food safety arrangements are recognized where possible, and our online system assists in documenting and verifying requirements", said Miss Scott.
"The Standards apply to businesses of any size that grow or complete primary or 'early-stage' processing such as washing, trimming, sorting, sanitizing or storing of berries, leafy vegetables or melons."
"It is worth noting that many businesses are already meeting the requirements in the standards, through their participation in industry food safety schemes."
"However, there will be new registration requirements which are managed through Agriculture Victoria Connect."
"If you grow leafy greens, melons, or berries in Victoria, I encourage you to visit the Agriculture Victoria website to learn more about the implementation of the Standards across Victoria, and to sign up for the Food Safety Standards e-news and keep up-to-date with upcoming events."
Agriculture Victoria is holding a webinar on Tuesday 10 December for berry, leafy vegetable,e, and melon producers to learn more about the new Primary Production and Processing Standards. Register for the webinar.
The webinar will cover key microbial food safety risks, what is required to comply with the Standards for each industry, how Global Food Safety Initiative schemes will be recognized, indicative costs, and where to access useful information and resources. Growers of all sizes are encouraged to attend. All producers are still obliged to ensure food for sale is safe and suitable for human consumption before this new Standard commencing on 12 February 2025.
For more information:
Makayla Rimington
Agriculture in Victoria
Tel: +61 0473 914 662
Email: [email protected]
www.agriculture.vic.gov.au