Punnets of Australian strawberries in New Zealand have been found to be contaminated with needles. Countdown supermarkets have pulled remaining stock from the Australian ‘Choice’ brand and have temporarily stopped importing strawberries from the brand.
Stock from the brand had been sold last week without concern, however as reports of strawberries with needles have emerged, new precautions have been taken. No one who indicated they found needles have been injured and the needles were discovered before being eaten.
“Police are taking this report seriously and are investigating together with our colleagues at the Ministry for Primary Industries,” said a police spokesperson.
“Customers can return any Choice brand of strawberries they may have at home to Countdown for peace of mind and a full refund. As an extra precaution and following similar advice from public health authorities in Australia, customers should cut up any Australian strawberries before eating them. Countdown is in contact with both New Zealand and Australian authorities as they investigate this matter,” said a Countdown spokesperson.
