New Zealand Food Safety - Ministry for Primary Industries

What is new in food safety rules?

At 2023 Foodtech Packtech, come and chat with the friendly New Zealand Food Safety (NZFS) team, from the Exporter Regulatory Advice Service (ERAS) and Food Regulation, at site 165.

Join the “Tips for export and updates to food rules” seminars (1pm, 19 September and 10am, 21 September) with NZFS’ Simon Holst and Grace Powell, to learn more about:

• exporting

• changes to importing food

• new mock recall rules

• changes to allergen labelling.

New Zealand's reputation for producing exceptional, high-quality food is fundamental to our exporting success. The Ministry for Primary Industries is reviewing the approach to export regulation, so we can continue to have the best regulatory settings for accessing overseas markets and growing New Zealand’s food and fibre exports sector.

This year, NZFS is doing significant work in food regulation, including recalls, importing and labelling. The changes aim to ensure the New Zealand food industry maintains its positive reputation domestically and internationally, by providing safe and suitable food products.

As of 1 July 2023, all businesses registered under the Food Act, Wine Act, or Animal Products Act, as well as food importers and exporters, must carry out a simulated recall at least every 12 months (unless they have conducted a successful actual recall in this period). Simulated recalls enable businesses to test their ability to trace and recall their products, and ensure they are prepared in the case of an actual food recall. To support this requirement, NZFS has created a simulated online food recall toolbox. The team continues to work with verifiers and businesses about best practice for food recalls.

Strengthened requirements for all New Zealand food importers came into effect on 1 August 2023. The changes clarify the role and responsibilities of food importers when they bring food into New Zealand, to ensure that the food is safe and suitable for Kiwi consumers. The rule changes for food importers, in four key areas, are detailed in the Food Notice: Requirements for Registered Food Importers and Imported Food for Sale.

The rules for declaring allergens in food are also changing to offer clarity and consistency for consumers. After 24 February 2023, food that is packaged and labelled will have to meet the new requirements that will help consumers to make informed decisions.

For details about these projects, visit mpi.govt.nz.