Australia faces a significant threat as larvae of the Khapra beetle have been found in imported diapers sold in supermarkets. This pest could devastate grain storage, threatening Australia's $18 billion grain industry. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, these pests arrived in a shipping container.
The Khapra beetle is a small brown insect, about 0.7 millimeters long and 0.25 millimeters wide. Its larvae, similar to maggots, are hairy and golden-brown, up to 4.5 millimeters long. They attack stored grain, rice, oilseeds, and dried foods, making them unfit for consumption by humans or animals.
Source: aajtak
While the pest hasn't spread in Australia yet, it could lead to grain rejection by Australia’s trade partners if it does. The country is a significant global exporter of wheat, barley, and sorghum, and the Ministry of Agriculture views this as a substantial threat to the industry.
Xavier Martin, President of NSW Farmers, compared the potential damage to that of a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak, emphasizing the need for government intervention to prevent widespread loss.
The beetle originates from India but has spread to parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe. Australia has implemented a $14.5 million action plan to prevent further spread.
On September 7, larvae were discovered in 'Little One' Ultra Dry Nappy Pants Walker Size 5 (42-pack) sold at Woolworths, a leading supermarket chain. These diapers were imported from Belgian company Ontex.
Source: aajtak
Agriculture Minister Julie Collins stated that the pest traveled via a shipping container. Of 2,000 cartons, 1,500 have been traced, leaving some still in the market. Ontex claimed they were unaware of the larvae's origin, stating they did not emanate from production. They've temporarily closed their Sydney factory and warehouse pending investigation.
The Ministry, in collaboration with the importer and retailer, has begun tracing and treating the diapers. Woolworths removed unsold diapers from shelves, placing them in quarantine.
The Ministry urges consumers who purchased these diapers not to use them, securely bag them, and contact officials or report via the DAFF website.
Professor Andrew Robinson from the University of Melbourne noted the surprising discovery of beetles in diapers signifies Australia's biosecurity system is operational.
Source: aajtak
Australia's grain industry is valued at $18 billion. The Khapra beetle can destroy up to 75% of grain, not only through consumption but also due to contamination with skin and insect remnants, potentially halting exports. Agricultural analyst Andrew Whitelaw expressed concern over the economic impact if the pest spreads.
