Food is not in short supply in South Australia or Australia, says Food South Australia CEO, Catherine Sayer.
“We are disappointed to see the panic buying continuing, because as far as food and beverage supplies are concerned, we have not heard of any issues with production,” she says.
“The surge that is now impacting people who cannot easily access supermarkets and the community generally is challenging distribution systems for no good reason, so we would urge consumers to support our producers and our retailers by shopping normally,” she said.
Keeping updated
Food South Australia is the peak industry association for food and beverage manufacturers, processors and producers in South Australia. It is the only organisation of its type in Australia, and members have been active in supplying clear evidence of impacts of COVID-19 to assist planning at industry and government levels.
“Our focus is ensuring governments are aware of industry concerns and impacts, ranging from technical support to managing impacts for small businesses,” says Ms Sayer.
“Our ability to gather information from our members means we are able to quickly update the state and federal Government. This is vitally important in the fast-paced and constantly evolving situation we are all facing.
“We have established a portal to enable food and beverage businesses to quickly and easily provide updates on impacts and issues affecting their businesses. This information is helping us keep everyone informed and ensure strategies for support are targeting the real needs of our largely small business-oriented industry in South Australia.
“We all know that clear communication is the most powerful tool we have against COVID-19, for our community, our businesses and our economy, and Food South Australia is working to ensure access to information both for industry and the Government,” said Ms Sayer.
The portal is available via the Coronavirus Update link on the Food SA website homepage at www.foodsouthaustralia.com.au.