SIMPLIFYING record-keeping processes and the implementation of food safety guidelines for Riverland citrus growers is the goal of new resources being created by a state industry body. 

Citrus SA, in partnership with New South Wales-based company Freshcare, earlier this month announced specific tools and resources would be developed to assist growers with standards program management and preparations for audit. 

Citrus SA chair, and Sunlands-based citrus grower, Mark Doecke said utilising the new resources would “save growers time and money”. 

“The aim of the review was to cut audit preparation times by up to 50 per cent, without compromising on food safety,” Mr Doecke said. 

“Citrus producers have an exemplary record of producing safe food and these changes streamline the system without compromising food safety. 

“We believe other commodities could benefit from working with Freshcare. A reduction in time spent doing paperwork means growers can concentrate on producing the highest-quality and safest food possible.”

The new resources will focus on implementation of the Food Safety and Quality Standard version 4.2 for single or specific-commodity crop growers.

Freshcare CEO Jane Siebum said specific risks and needs were provided for different crop types, ensuring “certification is accessible while still fulfilling international benchmarking requirements”. 

“This is a great step forward in supporting growers’ certification journey and shows what can be achieved when industry works together,” Ms Siebum said. 

“We’ve listened to the feedback from our participants running smaller-sized, or single-crop farms and worked together with Citrus SA to provide this resource. 

“We are proud to provide a robust and comprehensive certification program, giving our citrus growers access to international markets, through a resource which has expanded beyond a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach.” 

For further information contact Freshcare on 8039 9999, or email (info@freshcare.com.au).