Changes

The department has recently reviewed the biosecurity risks associated with the importation of processed grape leaves. Grape leaves can now be imported for human consumption if they have been:

• pickled or packed in salt brine, vinegar, alcohol or oil, or
  

• thoroughly dried and are shelf stable, or
  

• maintained at -18°C or below for at least seven days and arrive in Australia frozen.
  

The associated import conditions are outlined on the following BICON cases, respectively:

• Preserved fruit and vegetables for human consumption
  

• Dried herbs for human consumption
  

• Frozen fruit, vegetables and herbs for human consumption.
  

Who does this notice affect:

Importers of grape leaves (and their customs brokers), Assessment Services Group and Inspection Group.

Further information:

Please contact Plant Import Operations on 1800 900 090 or email imports@agriculture.gov.au.