Together with our industry counterparts, we’re urging you to remain on the lookout after a recent khapra beetle detection.
Khapra beetle larvae have been found in nappy pants imported to Australia. The pest, which Australia is currently free from, poses a significant risk to our grains industry. Importantly, the pest does not pose an immediate risk to human health.
A response is currently underway. You can read more information via Grain Producers Australia here.
What can you do?
If you have purchased Little One’s Ultra Dry Nappy Pants – Walker Size 5 (42pk) or any goods with signs of insect or pest activity, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) advises:
1. Do not use the goods.
2. Do not dispose of the goods or their packaging.
3. Do not return the goods to store. Instead:
- Double-bag the goods using plastic or Ziplock bags and seal with tape. Place in the freezer if possible, and do not move them. This will prevent spread.
- Call 1800 798 636 or visit Report a pest or disease concern HERE.
- You will then be contacted by DAFF about what to do next.
- If you have an impacted product, to discuss refund or replacement options, do not return the goods to store. Even if you need to contact Woolworths customer service (via Woolworths Customer Service) we ask that you retain the goods until contacted by DAFF to prevent the spread of the beetles.
- People need to be particularly vigilant when opening goods that have been imported from overseas or have been ordered online, as sometimes the origin of products online may not be evident.
- People working with imported goods, at ports, in warehouses or those transporting containers, need to be vigilant for hitchhiker pests. The department has several short videos HERE that will help you identify khapra beetle and how to keep containers clean so they are not susceptible to khapra beetle.