Imported Spices Survey

A national survey has been conducted under the coordinated food survey plan to gather information on the microbiological status of spices available for sale within Australia.

A number of food regulatory agencies in Australia including AQIS participated in this survey.

A range of spices, including whole, ground and mixed products, were assessed for water activity, Salmonella spp., Bacillus cereus and Clostridium perfringens.

Samples of spices were collected from supermarkets, small retailers, health food shops, market stalls and other retail outlets or upon import into Australia.

This survey can be found on the website of the Victorian Department of Human Health Services.