First Australian irradiated tomatoes of the season

First Australian irradiated tomatoes of the season on their way to New Zealand

The first shipment of irradiated Australian tomatoes of 2015 is due to arrive in New Zealand this week, prompting a reminder to retailers and the hospitality sector to ensure their produce is clearly labelled as ‘irradiated’.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) requires anyone selling irradiated produce to clearly label it at point of sale. The regulation applies to any irradiated tomatoes and products containing them, both raw and cooked.

Tomatoes New Zealand Chair Alasdair Macleod says consumers want to know what they’re eating and the labels allow consumers to make an informed choice.

A recent consumer survey found that many New Zealanders support the labelling of irradiated produce, with 85% of survey participants asking for irradiated fruit and vegetables, and food made with irradiated produce, to be clearly identified.

“If you’re unsure of the source of your produce, you should ask the supplier,” said Mr Macleod.

Irradiation kills bacteria and other pests including insects and is required of all tomatoes imported from Australia. Mr Macleod says New Zealand-grown tomatoes are never irradiated and Tomatoes NZ supports measures taken to protect New Zealand’s vulnerable horticulture industry from pests like the Queensland fruit fly.

The irradiation process uses electrical beams or X-rays or gamma rays generated from the radioactive source Cobalt 60 to kill off any bacteria and pests.

ENDS

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