EGG PRODUCER BANNED FROM SELLING AFTER SALMONELLA OUTBREAK

Apr 03, 2007
ABC News Online (Australia)
http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200704/s18880
48.htm

There is concern that a ban on a Tasmanian egg producer could, according to this story, result in an egg shortage.

The story says that the Department of Primary Industries is taking action against an egg producer after its contaminated eggs were linked to a salmonella outbreak on the north-west coast that affected at least 19 people. Food Safety Branch manager Chris Lyall was cited as saying there could be other producers who are operating without approval, adding, "We're also looking at a couple of other leads."

The president of the Egg Producer's Association, John Groeneweld, was cited as saying the sale ban has come at a bad time for the industry, adding, "Egg supply is very tight at the moment and weeks like Easter week tighten supply even further.

The story adds that the producer, who cannot be named, will not be able to sell eggs until it can demonstrate appropriate food safety measures.