New food safety standards for NSW horticulture

New food safety standards are being rolled out across New South Wales for berry, leafy vegetable and melon growers.

Under the nationally agreed laws, larger producers will require a NSW Food Authority licence, while smaller businesses must formally notify the regulator of their operations.

Primary processors who wash or pack produce grown by others will also need to be licensed and meet the updated requirements.

Acting Food Authority Chief Executive Andrew Davies says the changes respond to previous foodborne illness outbreaks linked to these commodities in Australia and overseas.

Because the produce is generally eaten raw, it is particularly vulnerable to contamination from soil, water, fertilisers, animals and worker hygiene.

The Authority says its initial focus will be on education and support, with licence fees waived for the first year and routine inspections beginning in February 2027.

Growers and processors are being encouraged to make early contact to ensure a smooth transition to the new regulatory framework.