In a bid to safeguard consumer safety and interests, New Zealand has introduced stricter regulations governing the import of food products.

Starting this month, New Zealand has implemented stricter requirements for food importers to enhance the consumers safety and suitability of imported food products. The changes aim to clarify the responsibilities of importers and improve overall food safety standards.

Under the new regulations, food importers must adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Conduct a safety and suitability assessment of imported food before entry into New Zealand.
2. Ensure safe storage and transportation of food products.
3. Maintain comprehensive records for a minimum of four years.
4. Develop a recall plan in the event of safety concerns.

Importers failing to adhere to these rules may face substantial penalties. Companies could be fined up to $500,000 (304,000 USD), while individuals may be fined up to $100,000 (60,800 USD) and potentially face up to two years of imprisonment.

Vincent Arbuckle, Deputy Director-General of New Zealand Food Safety, emphasized that most importers won’t need significant changes to comply with the new regulations. The rules provide clarity for importers to meet their responsibilities in ensuring food safety. Arbuckle highlighted the importance of avoiding costly recalls, as seen with recent incidents involving frozen berries and tahini.

The consultation process for these revised regulations began in June 2022, with ongoing engagement with importers. The changes were communicated in a previously issued food notice. All incoming shipments are screened at the border, and unregistered importers will need to obtain food importer registration before their consignments are released.

Certain foods with higher risk factors, termed “foods of high regulatory interest” or “foods of increased regulatory interest,” undergo specific monitoring and safety clearance.

Additionally, recent developments require chicken producers in the commercial supply chain to establish a registered risk management program by November 2023 to address the risk of Salmonella Enteritidis. This program will cover various stages of production and processing, including monitoring, record-keeping, and corrective actions.

These initiatives collectively strengthen New Zealand’s commitment to maintaining high food safety standards and ensuring the well-being of consumers.

Source:https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2023/08/new-zealand-tightens-food-import-rules/