Avian Influenza

There has been a great deal of media discussion about the spread of Avian Influenza (AI) throughout Asia and  Europe over the past few years.  

Avian influenza is a viral infection that can affect all species of birds and can infect mammals including humans, however this is less common. 

Here are some facts about Avian Influenza and eggs in Australia.*

The current situation.

• Australia is currently free of AI and there is no AI infection in any commercial egg laying flocks
  
• Australia is a world leader in biological security and has comprehensive programs and procedures in place for the detection and eradication of diseases such as AI.
  
• All eggs in Australia are produced understrict quality and safety regulations and guidelines.  Both industry and government are in regular contact with egg producers to ensure compliance with quality and safety standards.
  
• Australia currently exports eggs to Asian countries, because of our stringent food safety and quality assurance programs.

Food Safety Facts.

• There have not been any known cases anywhere in the world where humans have contracted AI from eating eggs.
  
• Australia does not import shell eggs for consumption domestically.  All imported and domestic egg products must be pasteurised, which destroys any influenza disease.

* A special thank you to the Australian Egg Corporation Limited