34 new cases of COVID-19 have been connected to a meat processing facility in Melbourne.
Cedar Meats Australia confirmed the Brooklyn meatworks was under investigation after an employee tested positive for the virus last week.
The employee attended Sunshine Hospital for a workplace-related injury on Thursday, however was tested for COVID-19 after displaying flu-like symptoms.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews confirmed on Monday there had been an additional 19 cases of the virus connected to the facility.
Cedar Meats closed its doors on Friday and all employees are currently in self-quarantine.
The Department of Health and Human Services released a statement confirming 300 employees have or are being tested for coronavirus.
“The department is working closely with the company, which agreed to close their facility as a precaution to ensure all required steps are being taken, including a thorough cleaning process,” reads the statement.
Meanwhile, the general manager of Cedar Meats released a statement to 3AW, reiterating the safety of the plant’s products.
“All meat processed at our facilities is processed in accordance with Australian Standards for food safety and our customers can be confident that the meat processed at our facilities is safe to eat,” said Tony Kairouz.
“All workers are self-quarantining and we are working closely with Victorian health authorities.”
There is no evidence COVID-19 is transmitted through food.
Image credit: The Conversation