“The Guidelines for Fresh Produce Food Safety 2019 ensure Australian produce has the highest safety standards of any produce anywhere in the world”, said Peter Tuohey, Chair, Melbourne Market Authority.

Launching the 2019 version of the Guidelines today at Hort Connections in Melbourne, Mr Tuohey acknowledged that Australian horticulture had seen some damage in recent years through contamination and tampering that impacted producers, retailers and exporters.

“However it is by continuing to evolve and change the standards within these Guidelines that will meet our consumer expectations”.

“These Guidelines set out the procedures and steps to prevent or deal with contaminations, and covers a comprehensive list of practices and potential hazards to assist growers, packers, transporters, wholesalers and retailers along the supply chain”.

The Guidelines were developed through the expertise and knowledge of the Fresh Produce Safety Centre A-NZ’s technical committee and can be viewed online or downloaded via www.fpsc-anz.com/food-safety-guidelines-2019/

“As custodians of the Guidelines, the Fresh Produce Safety Centre A-NZ ensures that with each updated version we are enhancing Australia and New Zealand’s fresh produce reputation”, said Jessica Purbrick, FPSC A-NZ, at the launch this morning.