There is currently no evidence of H5 avian influenza (bird flu) infection in Australian poultry or the wider agriculture industry, and detections to date have been limited to individual migratory seabirds.
The commercial poultry industry is maintaining strong biosecurity controls and there is currently no impact on production.
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) a/g CEO Dr Matt O’Mullane said Australia’s world-class biosecurity and food regulation systems ensure the safety of the food supply.
“Consumers can be assured poultry and egg products on sale are safe to eat, noting consumers and food businesses should always follow good hygiene practices when handling and preparing food,” Dr O’Mullane said.
“It is always important to ensure proper storage, handling and preparation of food to reduce food safety risks.
“For animal products to be sold as food, products must meet strict food safety production requirements.”
More information
- https://www.agriculture.gov.au/campaigns/birdflu
- Animal diseases, human-health and food safety
- Food safety basics
Media contact:
- 0401 714 265 (Australia)
- +61 401 714 265 (from New Zealand)
- media@foodstandards.gov.au