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| Nitrofurans
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What are nitrofurans?
Nitrofurans are a group of antibiotics that were banned from food production in Australia in 1992. The NSW Food Authority is not aware of any Australian beekeepers using nitrofurans - pure Australian honey remains free from nitrofurans.
What is the background to nitrofurans in honey?
In 2003 and 2004, media outlets reported that Australian honey was withdrawn from sale in Canada due to the presence of nitrofurans. The products involved contained imported honey, which had been blended with Australian produce.
In April 2004, the NSW Food Authority conducted a small survey of honey on the local market – ten samples were tested, three tested positive for nitrofuran residues but at low levels.
Have nirofurans been found anywhere else?
Yes, in October 2000, nitrofuran residues were found at low levels in prawns imported to Australia. Further testing by the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service found nitrofuran residues between December 2003 and April 2004.
A dietary exposure assessment has been undertaken to evaluate potential public health risks. On the basis of information available, the risk from nitrofuran residues in prawns is considered very low.
What action has the Authority taken about nitrofurans?
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has said there is no significant risk to public health, although the presence of nitrofurans breaches the Australia and New Zealand Food Standards Code.
Non-compliance with the Food Standards Code is an offence under the NSW Food Act 2003.
The Authority is responsible for enforcing all aspects of the Food Standards Code, NSW Food Act 2003 and the state’s food safety schemes.
The Authority is continuing to sample honey to search for nitrofuran residues, including honey used as an ingredient in the manufacture of other foods.
Should samples test positive for nitrofurans, the Food Authority will contact the companies involved to ensure nitrofurans do not appear.
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