Experts warn prices could skyrocket if this virus isn't controlled–here’s why you should care
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A growing concern is quietly sweeping across Australia's agricultural landscape, one that could affect both the economy and your weekly grocery bill.
What started as a minor incident has quickly escalated into a larger threat, with experts warning of significant consequences if it’s not controlled.
The ripple effects of this crisis may soon be felt in households across the country, leaving many to wonder just how far-reaching the impact could be.
A devastating virus known as Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) recently caused concern across South Australia and Victoria, threatening to increase tomato prices if left uncontrolled.
Though harmless to humans, ToBRFV can infect up to 100 per cent of plants and result in crop losses of up to 70 per cent.
The virus has a significant impact on the vegetable industry, particularly affecting tomatoes, capsicums, and chillis, as experts warned it poses a ‘significant biosecurity risk’ to Australia’s agricultural sector.
Detected first in South Australia five months ago, ToBRFV spread to a tomato glasshouse in northern Victoria earlier in the year, likely through a shipment of infected tomato seedlings.
As a result, one hundred workers were laid off and strict quarantine measures were enforced at the farm.
Tomatoes with the virus exhibit symptoms such as yellow marbling or spotting, uneven ripening, and wrinkled patches, impacting both the look and quality of the produce.
Dr Kayvan Etebari, Queensland Biosecurity Ambassador, stressed the broader economic implications of the outbreak.
He shared: 'Pest and disease outbreaks can lead to job losses and reduced workforce demand, posing a significant risk to household economies.'
The virus’s spread could also lead to higher supermarket prices for tomatoes.
'Economic principles show that a reduction in supply leads to higher prices, affecting both consumers and the agricultural industry,' Dr Etebari explained.
In fact, three tomato farms in South Australia suffered over $20 million in losses after the virus took hold in the region.
First identified in Israel in 2014, ToBRFV spread through Europe, Turkey, the US, and China before reaching Australia.
South Australian farmers believe the virus arrived through two infected seed lines imported from Turkey earlier in the year, raising concerns about biosecurity practices.
Dr Etebari warned: 'When returning from overseas, it is essential to carefully read and accurately answer the questions on the Incoming Passenger Card.’
‘Carrying plant material, seeds, or soil—even unintentionally—can introduce devastating plant viruses and pose a serious risk to Australia's agricultural industry and environment.'
The outbreak has had a severe impact on workers, with 500 employees losing their jobs in September 2024 when three South Australian farms had to close down, forcing growers to destroy crops.
Symptoms of the virus in tomato plants include yellow marbling, wrinkled patches, and deformities in the fruit, as well as yellowing or mottling of the leaves.
The glasshouse in Victoria where the virus was detected has been placed under biosecurity control until further investigations are completed.
The affected seedlings were isolated, preventing contamination of other plants on the property.
Despite the spread to Victoria, South Australia's Department of Primary Industries remained confident that the virus was not expanding further.
To protect Australia’s agricultural industry, Dr Etebari urged Australians to stay vigilant.
He said: 'Early detection and reporting are crucial in preventing outbreaks and protecting Australia’s biodiversity and food security.'
A simple practice of regularly checking gardens and reporting suspicious activity to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline can help mitigate risks.
'Even if the suspected pest or disease turns out not to be exotic or a major concern, this simple practice helps safeguard our environment and agricultural industry,’ he stressed.
For those who encounter signs of the virus, the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline can be reached at 1800 084 881.
As this virus continues to impact Australia’s agricultural industry, the question remains: will the price of your favourite tomatoes rise, and how will it affect your shopping habits?
Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
What started as a minor incident has quickly escalated into a larger threat, with experts warning of significant consequences if it’s not controlled.
The ripple effects of this crisis may soon be felt in households across the country, leaving many to wonder just how far-reaching the impact could be.
A devastating virus known as Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) recently caused concern across South Australia and Victoria, threatening to increase tomato prices if left uncontrolled.
Though harmless to humans, ToBRFV can infect up to 100 per cent of plants and result in crop losses of up to 70 per cent.
The virus has a significant impact on the vegetable industry, particularly affecting tomatoes, capsicums, and chillis, as experts warned it poses a ‘significant biosecurity risk’ to Australia’s agricultural sector.
Detected first in South Australia five months ago, ToBRFV spread to a tomato glasshouse in northern Victoria earlier in the year, likely through a shipment of infected tomato seedlings.
As a result, one hundred workers were laid off and strict quarantine measures were enforced at the farm.
Tomatoes with the virus exhibit symptoms such as yellow marbling or spotting, uneven ripening, and wrinkled patches, impacting both the look and quality of the produce.
Dr Kayvan Etebari, Queensland Biosecurity Ambassador, stressed the broader economic implications of the outbreak.
He shared: 'Pest and disease outbreaks can lead to job losses and reduced workforce demand, posing a significant risk to household economies.'
The virus’s spread could also lead to higher supermarket prices for tomatoes.
'Economic principles show that a reduction in supply leads to higher prices, affecting both consumers and the agricultural industry,' Dr Etebari explained.
In fact, three tomato farms in South Australia suffered over $20 million in losses after the virus took hold in the region.
First identified in Israel in 2014, ToBRFV spread through Europe, Turkey, the US, and China before reaching Australia.
South Australian farmers believe the virus arrived through two infected seed lines imported from Turkey earlier in the year, raising concerns about biosecurity practices.
Dr Etebari warned: 'When returning from overseas, it is essential to carefully read and accurately answer the questions on the Incoming Passenger Card.’
‘Carrying plant material, seeds, or soil—even unintentionally—can introduce devastating plant viruses and pose a serious risk to Australia's agricultural industry and environment.'
The outbreak has had a severe impact on workers, with 500 employees losing their jobs in September 2024 when three South Australian farms had to close down, forcing growers to destroy crops.
Symptoms of the virus in tomato plants include yellow marbling, wrinkled patches, and deformities in the fruit, as well as yellowing or mottling of the leaves.
The glasshouse in Victoria where the virus was detected has been placed under biosecurity control until further investigations are completed.
The affected seedlings were isolated, preventing contamination of other plants on the property.
Despite the spread to Victoria, South Australia's Department of Primary Industries remained confident that the virus was not expanding further.
To protect Australia’s agricultural industry, Dr Etebari urged Australians to stay vigilant.
He said: 'Early detection and reporting are crucial in preventing outbreaks and protecting Australia’s biodiversity and food security.'
A simple practice of regularly checking gardens and reporting suspicious activity to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline can help mitigate risks.
'Even if the suspected pest or disease turns out not to be exotic or a major concern, this simple practice helps safeguard our environment and agricultural industry,’ he stressed.
For those who encounter signs of the virus, the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline can be reached at 1800 084 881.
As this virus continues to impact Australia’s agricultural industry, the question remains: will the price of your favourite tomatoes rise, and how will it affect your shopping habits?
Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
