SYDNEY: An Australian state has offered a large reward for information after sewing needles were found in strawberries sold in supermarkets, in what the federal health minister described as a “vicious crime.”
The issue came to light last week when a man was taken to hospital with stomach pains after eating the fresh produce bought at a supermarket in Queensland state.
Since then, people have posted on social media photos of other strawberries with small metal pins stuck into them.
Several brands grown in Queensland have been withdrawn from supermarkets, and there have been multiple reports of other cases in the states of New South Wales and Victoria.
“Whoever is behind this is not just putting families at risk across Queensland and the rest of Australia — they are putting an entire industry at risk,” Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said Saturday.
Her government is offering a Aus$100,000 ($71,500) reward for any information that leads to the capture and conviction of those responsible.
“I would urge anyone with information that may be relevant to this incident in any way to contact police as soon as possible,” she added.
Queensland Police told national broadcaster ABC the contamination of the strawberries — usually sold in small plastic boxes called punnets — was done “obviously to injure somebody.”
They have yet to reveal possible motives but the Queensland Strawberry Growers Association said a disgruntled former worker might be responsible.
Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt said Sunday he had ordered the national food safety watchdog to assess the handling of the cases, calling the sabotage a “very vicious crime.”
The Queensland strawberry industry is valued at about Aus$160 million ($114 million). The ABC said Saturday wholesale prices had fallen by half to 50 Australian cents per punnet, below the cost of production.
Consumers have been urged to cut up their strawberries before eating.
Australia offers reward amid mystery strawberry needle scare
Australia offers reward amid mystery strawberry needle scare
- Several brands grown in Queensland have been withdrawn from supermarkets, and there have been multiple reports of other cases in the states of New South Wales and Victoria
Where We Are Going Today: The Terrace in Jeddah
- Desserts at The Terrace follow classic lines, with options like profiteroles, cardamom creme brulee, tiramisu and pavlova
The Terrace by The Good Butcher, overseen by food entrepreneur and chef Basma El-Khereiji, is a new seaside spot that combines casual dining with live music and pop-up events.
Located next to Movenpick Jeddah Al-Nawras in Ash Shati, the setting offers an open view of the water, making it a relaxed place to spend an afternoon or evening.
The menu focuses heavily on burgers, with options ranging from the double and triple smashed cheeseburgers, to the more elaborate truffle and wagyu burgers.
I tried a selection of the smashed burgers and found the beef to be well cooked and the seasoning balanced, though the triple cheeseburger felt slightly heavy with all the toppings combined.
The crispy chicken burger and chicken Caesar burger provided alternatives to red meat, with straightforward preparation and familiar flavors. Sides such as parmesan and truffle fries, paired with sauces like cheddar, BBQ and truffle mayo, complemented the mains.
Desserts at The Terrace follow classic lines, with options like profiteroles, cardamom creme brulee, tiramisu and pavlova. I tried the cardamom creme brulee and the pavlova. The creme brulee had a smooth, creamy texture, with a delicate hint of cardamom that was noticeable, and the caramelized top added a satisfying contrast.
The pavlova offered crisp meringue with a soft interior, paired with a light mascarpone cream and fresh berries, providing a mix of textures in each bite. Both desserts were consistent with their descriptions and well prepared.
One of the standout options on the beverage menu is the spicy bull heart, a tomato-based drink that combines tomato juice with lemon, Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of salt and pepper.
The menu also includes gin and tonics with a choice of tonics, as well as signature cocktails like wooden smoke house and sunny land, each bringing a unique combination of ingredients and infusions.
The beverage menu introduces new and unexpected flavors, encouraging guests to explore and try something they may never have tasted before, all while enjoying the seaside setting and relaxed ambiance.
Check @theterrace.sa for more information.
