IMPORTED raw prawns have tested positive for white spot disease since enhanced import conditions were introduced.
Australian Prawn Farmers Association president Matt West said three consignments had tested positive to the crustacean disease, which can have a devastating impact on the prawn farming industry.
White spot has the potential to devastate prawn populations but is not harmful to humans and affected prawns are safe for consumption.
“Obviously this is very concerning for us,” Mr West said.
“Part of the new enhanced import conditions requires countries sending the prawns certifying the consignment is free of white spot, and three consignments have failed this.
“It is heartening to know, however, that the government has identified and stopped these consignments from passing through our borders.
“APFA believe the only way to reduce the risk and keep crustacean diseases out of our country is to continue testing 100 per cent of all consignments at our borders.”
Mr West said one year on from the disease outbreak, the prawn industry had responded to, and continually responded to, an extreme crustacean disease event.
“Although not their fault, the Logan farms have unselfishly and voluntarily shut down for a fallowing period to drive the disease out of the country,” Mr West said.
“We are working hard to build our industry back up so that we can continue to supply top quality, locally grown Australian prawns to the Australian community. We call on Government to do everything possible to protect the Australian prawn industry.”
Mr West said consumers could support the industry by buying Australian prawns for Christmas.
