There are new food safety standards for growers of berries, leafy green vegetables and melons set to come into effect on the 12th of February in 2025 which will maintain the state of Victoria's reputation as a responsible producer, according to the state's peak body in agriculture.
As was covered on Flow's Country Viewpoint program recently, Agriculture Victoria Horticulture Standards Engagement Officer, Emily Scott, revealed that 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," Scott said in a media release.
"Current food safety arrangements are recognised where possible and our online system assists in documenting and verifying requirements, the standards apply to businesses of any size that grow or complete primary or early stage processing such as washing, trimming, sorting, sanitising 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.
Scott emphasised the importance of industry members sorting after more information on the developments by accessing critical resources.
"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 eNews and keep up to date with upcoming events," Scott said in a media release.
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