In a world-first, safety audit requirements for fresh produce will be harmonised across Australia’s leading supermarket chains.
Announced by Australia’s assistant minister for agriculture, Anne Ruston, and funded by the nation’s horticulture research and development corporation, Horticulture Innovation Australia (Hort Innovation), the move is aimed at lowering the cost of doing business and improving food safety across the fresh produce supply chain.
“Currently, Australia’s leading grocery retailers all have varying food safety requirements that whole fruit and vegetable growers adhere to as part of the supermarket supply process,” said Hort Innovation chief executive John Lloyd.
The new measures will bring down the number of audit elements required to supply the nation’s major grocery retailers from more than 200 to around 60. Lloyd praised participating retailers ALDI, Coles, Costco, Metcash (IGA) and Woolworths for their support.
“It willlower the cost of doing business for the industry, which is estimated to save growers and producers around A$40m per year through more efficient auditing processes,” he explained.
“Thegrocery retailers have responded to industry feedback, and reviewed the current arrangements, and have combined the best food safety standards that are available.”
An ALDI spokesperson said the initiative would have far-reaching benefits for the retailers involved.
“A harmonised food safety auditing process will ensure our customers will continue to enjoy produce that is of the highest quality and the safest possible by world standards.”
Coles said it was pleased to have reduced complexity for suppliers while ensuring great quality produce for its customers.
“This is a big win for suppliers who will find the job of providing great fresh produce a little bit easier, and for our customers who can be assured they are getting the best quality possible,” a Coles spokesperson said.
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