Meat processing facility Cedar Meats in Melbourne has identified itself as the site of a COVID-19 outbreak, with 34 cases currently linked to the abattoir.

The Victorian Government had refused to name the facility, declaring the site did not pose a public health risk, however, the meatworks came forward and identified itself.

The processing plant shut its doors on Friday and is undertaking a thorough cleaning of the facilities. All workers are being tested for COVID-19 and are currently in self-quarantine. Contact tracing is also being conducted.

“The welfare and safety of our staff, visitors, suppliers and customers is our highest priority,” Cedar Meats general manager Tony Kairouz said in a statement.

“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.”

It’s the first cluster to occur at a meat processing facility in Australia, however, the incidence has been common overseas, especially in the US, where many large meatworks have closed.

Victorian Health Minister Jenny Mikakos has reassured Australians that Victorian meat is safe to eat.

“In accordance with advice from Food Standards Australia New Zealand there is no evidence that COVID-19 can be transmitted to people through food or packaging,” Mikakos said in a statement.

“Based on this information, consumers can have confidence that meat processed at the facility is safe to eat.

“As usual, consumers should ensure that all meat is thoroughly cooked, especially minced meat and hamburgers.”