South Australian residents have been warmed of potential fruit fly in the state, following the discovery of larvae in cherry tomatoes in pre-packaged salads.
The tomatoes were sourced from New South Wales and passed certification for being treated with an approved fruit-fly chemical, then refrigerated in sealed packets.
But, in unusual circumstances, the fruit fly larvae managed to remain in those tomatoes sent to South Australia, possibly because the larvae were in ideal circumstances to survive, according to Chief Biosecurity Officer of Biosecurity SA, Dr Rob Rahaley.
“Woolworths in South Australia, which also obtained the salad packs from Victorian company Salad Fresh, has withdrawn these from sale and has been instructed by Biosecurity SA to contain and segregate this stock, for returning to Salad Fresh, or for appropriate destruction,” Rahaley said.
“However, what is unknown is how many of these packs have been sold in South Australia and whether any of these might contain fruit fly larvae that may have survived.
“The message to any consumers who may have bought Salad Fresh brand salad packs containing cherry tomatoes recently is to return it to the store from where it was purchased.
“If a consumer has already discovered maggots and put this into their bin, please ensure that bag is sealed and then disposed of in their normal household refuse.
“The chance of fruit fly getting into South Australia and compromising our state’s $480 million horticultural industry is a risk we can’t take.
“The assistance and support provided by Woolworths to undertake immediate withdrawal of this commodity, and to provide ongoing updates on its recovery, is greatly appreciated.”