Editorial: Happy days
OPINION: The year has started positively for New Zealand dairy farmers and things are likely to get better.
The Ministry for Primary Industries has recalled the brand of frozen berries associated with the increased risk from Hepatitis A.
The berries led to four people being hospitalised.
"Today we have directed a specific company to recall a brand of imported frozen berries from shelves," says MPI's director plants food and environment Peter Thomson.
"The company is FSL Foods, and the brand being recalled is Fruzio Mixed Berries sold in 1kg and 500 gram bags. This product contains blackberries and strawberries."
Thomson says if you have the product at home it should be discarded.
"Our investigation is ongoing and, at this stage, our advice concerning all imported frozen berries stays the same. We are not able to rule out further recalls."
"This is an evolving and complex situation and we were able to reach this conclusion today because of new genetic evidence about the virus and a continuing examination of the supply chain."
MPI still says anyone who is concerned should briefly boil any frozen berries before eating them, or ensure cooking exceeds 85°C for one minute.
"Elderly persons and those with chronic liver damage should avoid imported frozen berries that have not been heat treated." says Thomson.
Additional reductions to costs for forest owners in the Emissions Trading Scheme Registry (ETS) have been announced by the Government.
Animal welfare is of paramount importance to New Zealand's dairy industry, with consumers increasingly interested in how food is produced, not just the quality of the final product.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay is encouraging farmers and growers to stay up to date with weather warnings and seek support should they need it.
The closure of SH2 Waioweka Gorge could result in significant delays and additional costs for freight customers around the Upper North Island, says Transporting New Zealand.
OPINION: The year has started positively for New Zealand dairy farmers and things are likely to get better.
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) Director General Ray Smith believes there is potential for an increase in dairy farming in New Zealand.

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