Freshcare Berry, Leafy Greens & Melon Producers Recognised For Certification Achievement

Freshcare Berry, Leafy Greens & Melon Producers Recognised For Certification Achievement

Freshcare Berry, Leafy Greens and Melon Producers Recognised in Western Australia for Certification Achievement Growers, Packers and Supply Chain handlers of berries, leafy greens and melons who are certified to Freshcare’s Food Safety & Quality Program (on-farm or supply chain) will be recognised as meeting the requirements of the new Primary Production and Processing (PPP) standard in Western Australia.

Freshcare CEO, Jane Siebum says this is a fantastic outcome for Freshcare growers and supply chain businesses as part of ongoing collaboration with peak industry bodies, WA Government and Local State Government jurisdictions.

“The recognition from the WA Government is a testament to the amazing work our growers and supply chain businesses do every day across Australia.

“Freshcare continually works to gain recognition for the hard work our growers, supply chain and businesses already do through attaining certification.

“Freshcare participants have proved through ongoing implementation of best business practice and meeting compliance criteria that their food is safe and of the highest quality for consumer consumption.

“We hope to see our participants hard work acknowledged and recognised throughout all Australian States and Territories over the coming year, in time for the commencement of the new regulatory requirements,” said Ms Siebum.

Under the PPP requirements for Horticulture (Berries, Leafy Vegetables and Melons) developed by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) – WA growers, packers and processors who maintain their Freshcare Certification will not be subjected to additional routine inspections by Local Government, who will be the enforcement agency for the new regulatory requirement. 

Vegetable peak industry body AUSVEG says WA’s recognition of Freshcare sets a good template for other jurisdictions to consider.

“AUSVEG welcomes the West Australian Government’s recognition of Freshcare as meeting the requirements of the new PPP standard,” says Zarmeen Hassan, AUSVEG’s National Manager, Biosecurity and Extension.

“Australian growers are committed to providing safe and healthy food to Australian and global consumers, and in many cases already adhere to rigorous food safety certification schemes such as Freshcare.

“State and territory recognition of these schemes as fulfilling the requirements of the new standard means food safety is upheld while avoiding duplication of paperwork for overlapping certification schemes.”

The new PPP regulatory requirements commence 12 February 2025 and any Freshcare certified businesses who maintain their status, will not be subjected to additional routine inspections, as they are already audited by a certified independent third-party auditor. 

ENDS

For More Information
Western Australian Government, Health Department Factsheet for Berry, Leafy Green & Melon Growers CLICK HERE