Ask the expert: Is it safe to eat frozen berries?

Question:

I used to buy a lot of frozen berries but am unsure now due to health warnings about hepatitis A risk. I have looked for brands from countries with safer water for washing, but while they are packaged in NZ or Australia they aren’t grown there. Which berries are safe, or can they be cooked to remove the hepatitis risk?

Answer:

Navigating food safety can feel confusing, especially when it involves something as wholesome as frozen berries. They are such a convenient and affordable source of antioxidants and fibre – not to mention delicious!

While hepatitis A outbreaks linked to frozen berries occurred in Australia (2015 and 2017) and more recently in New Zealand (2022–2023), it’s important to note that the affected berries were imported. Since then, both countries have tightened regulations on imported frozen berries, including routine testing and risk assessments. Choosing Australian or New Zealand-grown frozen berries may offer extra peace of mind.

If you’re still feeling cautious – especially for people with weakened immune systems – cooking your berries is a simple yet effective step to reduce risk. Heat berries to a rolling boil for at least one minute to destroy pathogens. You can create a warm berry compote or chia jam, bake them into muffins or crumbles, or quickly cool with ice to add to smoothies. And don’t forget: always wash your hands when handling them. Finally, you could consult your GP about the hepatitis A vaccine, they are highly effective and offer another layer of protection.