Written Answer by Ministry of National Development on precautionary measures for fruits imported from Australia

Oct 1, 2018

Mr Chong Kee Hiong: To ask the Minister for National Development in view of the recent incidents of fruits sabotaged with needles in Australia, what precautionary measures are in place for fruits imported from Australia.

Answer:

As part of its food safety regime, AVA regularly inspects and conducts sampling of imported fruits to ensure that they comply with our standards and requirements. Imported fruits that fail AVA’s food safety inspections will not be allowed for sale.

Following the reports of needles found in Australian strawberries, AVA has been in close communication with the Australian authorities, which have implemented additional export control measures. From 19 September 2018, exporters have been required to provide assurance, such as evidence of metal detector or x-ray screening, to Australian authorities that their consignments of fresh strawberries are free from metal contaminants prior to export.

AVA will continue to closely monitor the situation and take action where necessary.