Biosecurity Queensland has announced it has modified its Movement Control Order to allow low-risk honey products and equipment into Queensland while stopping varroa mite from entering.
Chief Plant Health Manager at the Agency, Mike Ashton said the new order freed up supply-chain movement for honey products.
“We have identified processed honey products as low-risk, and importantly, honey remains entirely safe for human consumption and is not affected by the mites,” Mr Ashton said.
“Processed honey can only be transported in clean containers or packaging to avoid attracting bees.”
He said bulk honey and processed beeswax could only be moved if it was packed in a facility that excluded bees, and the outside of the container, and any frames, pallets and packaging, were free from honey or beeswax.
Meanwhile, Queensland beekeepers can now use a new form on a survey app to help keep the varroa mite out of the State.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries, Mark Furner said using the Bee 123 form on the Survey 123 app would play an important role in the fight against varroa.
“Even if suspect mites are not found, information from the Bee 123 form will be used to understand the number and health of beehives in Queensland, and to demonstrate the State remains free of the pest,” Mr Furner said.
“The recent detection of varroa mites in NSW highlights the need for increased vigilance to protect Queensland’s beehives, the honeybee industry and the crops they pollinate.”
