Published 14 June 2024
Avian influenza (bird flu) is not a food safety concern and it is safe to eat properly handled and cooked chicken meat, eggs and egg products.
There is no evidence to show the virus can be transmitted to people through properly prepared food.
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) CEO Dr Sandra Cuthbert said Australia’s world-class biosecurity and food regulation systems ensure the safety of the food supply.
“Farms affected by bird flu have been quarantined and the movement of animals and products restricted,” Dr Cuthbert said.
“Poultry flocks affected by bird flu are being destroyed as part of the emergency response to contain the disease as it is highly contagious in poultry. This approach is to restrict the spread of the disease between birds, not to manage food safety.
“For animal products to be sold as food, animals must not be a source of food safety concerns. All retail products must meet strict food safety production requirements.
“Together, biosecurity and food regulation measures provide confidence in the safety of the food supply.
“Consumers can be assured poultry and egg products on sale are safe to eat, noting consumers and food businesses should always follow good hygiene practices when handling and preparing food.”
It is always important to ensure proper storage, handling and preparation of food to reduce food safety risks.
More information
Media contact:
- 0401 714 265 (Australia)
- +61 401 714 265 (from New Zealand)
- media@foodstandards.gov.au