A Heywood egg producer was recently fined $2,500 for selling unstamped eggs at local south-west supermarkets and from his farm-gate stall.
Agriculture Victoria Leading Animal Health Officer Emily Huglin said it is a legal requirement that egg producers can only sell eggs that are individually marked with the producers’ unique identification.
“Producers and businesses that produce eggs must implement measures to control food safety hazards and must be able to trace their individual eggs for sale,” Ms Huglin said.
“This requirement is in accordance with the national Standard 4.2.5 – Primary Production and Processing Standard for Eggs and Egg Product and is legislated under the Food Act 1984 in Victoria and ensures traceability for all eggs sold across Australia.”
Agriculture Victoria authorised officers detected unstamped eggs being offered for sale at multiple retailers and from the farm-gate stall between December 2018 and March 2019.
“Continued non-compliance of the Food Act 1984 was identified throughout the investigation, with the producer, not stamping individual eggs prior to selling.”
Ms Huglin said this case serves as a strong reminder to egg producers that it is an offence to sell eggs that are not individually identified.
“With recent Salmonella Enteritidis outbreaks in New South Wales and Victoria, it is a timely reminder of the importance of food safety and the need to trace food products efficiently and effectively.”
