Horticulture

Regulations for horticulture businesses

Under the Food Act 2001, all producers have an obligation to ensure that food for sale is safe and suitable for human consumption, and to comply with the Food Standards Code where applicable.

On 12 August 2022, 3 new horticulture primary production and processing standards were introduced into the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.

The 3 standards aim to reduce the incidence of foodborne illness associated with berries, leafy vegetables and melons. There is a transition period for producers to implement these standards by no later than 12 February 2025.

The PIRSA Food Standards Program will determine how these standards are implemented and enforced in South Australia.

Berries

Standard 4.2.7 – Primary Production and Processing Standard for Berries

Growers and primary processors (for example, pack-houses) must:

  • identify and control food safety hazards associated with berry growing and primary processing
  • notify regulators of their activities.

Applies to:

  • fresh berries
  • includes berries such as strawberries, blueberries and berries from the genus Rubus.

Leafy vegetables

Standard 4.2.8 – Primary Production and Processing Standard for Leafy Vegetables

Growers and primary processors (for example, pack-houses) must:

  • identify and control food safety hazards associated with growing and primary processing of leafy vegetables
  • have an approved food safety management statement which includes notifying regulators of their activities.

Applies to:

  • vegetables of a leafy nature where the leaf is consumed raw
  • includes baby leaves, lettuce, and leafy herbs
  • does not include seed sprouts.

Melons

Standard 4.2.9 – Primary Production and Processing Standard for Melons

Growers and primary processors (for example, pack-houses) must:

  • identify and control food safety hazards associated with growing and primary processing of melons
  • have an approved food safety management statement which includes notifying regulators of their activities.

Applies to:

  • fresh melons
  • includes watermelon, rockmelon, honeydew melon and piel de sapo.

More information

Food Standards Australia New Zealand - Food safety in horticulture
Fresh Produce Safety Centre - Food safety grower guides
Fresh Produce Safety Centre - Guidelines for fresh produce food safety 2022
Fresh Produce Safety Centre - Fresh Produce Safety Centre publications
International Fresh Produce Association - Guidance on handling fresh produce exposed to flood water
Australian Farmers Markets Association - Farmers market safety guide

Contact the food safety program

(08) 8429 0867 pirsa.foodsafety@sa.gov.au
Page last reviewed: 10 Jan 2024

 


Top of page