The Australian Fresh Produce Alliance (AFPA) explains its members are at the front line of delivering fruit and vegetables to the country's consumers despite the challenges posed by Covid-19.
The alliance highlights "rigorous" systems are in place to guard against the spread of foodborne illnesses and viruses, and its members are working with the government and retailers to ensure the most comprehensive systems are working to deal with the impact of the coronavirus.
Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) advises the "transmission (of coronavirus) through food is unlikely and there is no evidence of this occurring with novel coronavirus to date, however investigations into how the virus spreads are continuing".
"Our members are at the forefront of efforts to maintain the supply of fresh fruit and vegetables to all Australians," says FPA CEO Michael Rogers.
"They are also focussed on ensuring business continuity in order to maintain crop production, harvesting and supply.
"It is vitally important in these unprecedentedtimes for people to be able to access and continue to consume healthy and nutritious food."
He says farmers remain vigilant in providing safe and nutritious fruit and vegetables while managing the impact of coronavirus on individual businesses.
Updated at 6:19pm AEDT on 16 March 2020.
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