Tightened rules for New Zealand food importers

All New Zealand food importers must now follow strengthened requirements that have come into effect, in a change aimed at making imported food safer.

Vincent Arbuckle, New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general, said the changes clarify the roles and responsibilities of food importers.

“Most food importers won’t have to make any changes to comply with the new rules, some will have to make minor tweaks, and a small number will have to dramatically improve their procedures,” Arbuckle said.

“We encourage all registered food importers to go and check the Ministry for Primary Industries website to make sure they are following the updated rules.”

All the rules changes are detailed in a Food Notice that was issued in February 2023, providing detailed requirements for four key areas: food importers must conduct a safety and suitability assessment before food is brought into NZ; make sure the food is stored and transported safely; keep proper records; and have a recall plan in case something goes wrong.

Though food importers have always had to ensure food is safe and suitable, the rules provide further clarity on responsibilities.

“We’re sure importers and retailers would like to avoid expensive recalls, like those seen recently with frozen berries and tahini, and complying with these new rules will help them to ensure their food is safe and minimise the likelihood of things going wrong,” Arbuckle said.

New Zealand Food Safety began consulting with the industry about the new rules in June 2022 and has been in regular contact with food importers about the strengthened rules.

Importers who fail to follow safety rules can face legal consequence of up to $500,000 in fines for a company and up to $100,000 in fines and two years’ jail for an individual.

Guidance for importers is available on the New Zealand Food Safety website, and food importers with any questions can contact New Zealand Food Safety on 0800 00 83 33 or info@mpi.govt.nz.

Image credit: iStock.com/dusanpetkovic