Skretting denies mold and pigeon waste claims as Biosecurity Tasmania launches probe
Skretting, the leading global fish-feed supplier, rejected a former employee’s allegation that mold-laden pellets contaminated with pigeon droppings were being reprocessed at its Cambridge plant, while Biosecurity Tasmania opened an investigation.
Matthew Levien, an experienced aquaculture technician, left his position as team leader at Skretting’s Cambridge plant after less than two weeks, alleging he saw moldy fish-feed pellets being reprocessed and pigeon faeces in the intake area. He posted photos on social media and lodged a formal complaint with Biosecurity Tasmania, warning that mycotoxins could harm salmon health and potentially enter the human food chain.
Skretting Australia responded that the mold-affected product was contained and will be disposed of, asserting there is no risk to fish or consumers and noting that independent laboratory tests in 2025 and 2026 found toxin levels below detection limits. Biosecurity Tasmania confirmed an investigation is under way, while the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania declined further comment. Independent Member for Franklin Peter George urged Primary Industries Minister Gavin Pearce to ensure a full, urgent, and transparent probe. A University of Tasmania expert explained that fungal growth in salmon feed is common and that mycotoxins can damage fish and may pose human health risks if regulatory limits are exceeded.
Why it matters
Contaminated fish feed could harm salmon production and potentially affect consumer food safety.
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