Fruit fly larvae found in Devonport grocery store resulting in statewide recall

The discovery has resulted in a statewide recall. 

A traceback on the nectarine has confirmed it was from an interstate market and had been through an accredited fruit fly treatment facility in Victoria.

Biosecurity Tasmania General Manager Llyod Klumpp said the nectarines came into Tasmania as certified, treated fruit fly free produce.

“However this is clearly not the case, and so in line with agreed protocols we have issued a recall on all fruit fly host produce that has gone through this particular interstate treatment facility,” Mr Klumpp said. 

At-risk produce is being immediately taken off shelves at all retail outlets.

“We are undertaking further investigations with interstate authorities, including any relationship between this Victorian treatment facility and other Tasmanian detections of fruit fly this summer,” Mr Klumpp said. 

The affected fruit was detected as part of Biosecurity Tasmania’s standard operations.

“It is important to remember that the recall does not affect all fruit fly host produce in Tasmania, just the produce that went through this particular facility, before being imported to Tasmania,” he said. 

“For people who already have fruit and vegetables at home the message is simple, you can cook it or eat it, but when you dispose of it, it must be double wrapped in plastic bags before going in the bin. Do not do not compost or dump it.”

He said there is no need to return fruit to the grocery store. 

‘This reinforces the important message to all Tasmanians; be vigilant for signs of fruit fly. Whether it is homegrown or store purchased it is important for people to inspect all fruit fly host produce and look for signs of damage or larvae in the fruit,” he said.