Two more papers released as part of NZFSA's Domestic Food Review
The New Zealand Food Safety Authority's far-reaching review of the government's role in the domestic food sector moves
into its second phase this month with the release of two more discussion papers.
The Domestic Food Review, which has been underway since March 2003, is a long term project expected to take at least
five years. It's only the second time in the past 30 years that controls on New Zealand food have been the subject of a
major review.
Submissions on the first five papers, which closed in February, are now being analysed and their impact on proposals are
being considered.
Two new "concept" papers – Papers 6 and 7 – have been released for public consultation and these are called Compliance
and sanctions: Criteria and tools for the future and Criteria and processes for various approvals.
Submissions on both these papers will close on 30 August 2005. NZFSA is holding a series of workshops around New Zealand
to further explain the concepts behind the papers and to answer questions. The workshop dates and locations are:
Christchurch – 25 July
Invercargill – 26 July
Dunedin 26 July
Napier – 29 July
Hamilton – 1 August
Auckland 2 August
Wellington – 3 August
Those with an interest in the review are invited to come along, hear the proposals outlined and raise any queries or
issues they may have.
There is no charge to attend the workshops, and those who do will receive a copy of both papers to take away with them.
These are also available on request from NZFSA. If you would like to attend a workshop, contact NZFSA (details below)
for more information.
Paper 6 proposes five new principles intended to improve the current inconsistency surrounding compliance with food
safety rules and the penalties and sanctions of non-compliance.
Paper 7 discusses the many areas related to food where approvals are currently provided by government and how they might
be handled in the future.
The Domestic Food Review is likely to result in changes that will mean greater consistency in the delivery of safe food
in New Zealand. It is expected to identify areas where risks are highest, and to put the onus for safe food on those
involved in producing it.
Every aspect of food sold in New Zealand is being considered as part of the review and if you are involved in any kind
of food production, preparation, handling or delivery then it could be critical that you have a say.
Decisions made as a result of it have the potential to affect every food producer and retailer in New Zealand – from
large factories to the corner dairy, through restaurants to takeaways.
All the concept papers are available on the NZFSA website (www.nzfsa.govt.nz) or by contacting NZFSA on freephone 0800
NZFSA 1 (0800 693 721). The two papers now open for public consultation are Papers 6 and 7.
Submissions on papers can be sent to:
Submissions,
Domestic food Review Policy Group,
New Zealand food Safety Authority,
PO Box 2835,
Wellington.
Email: dfrsubmission@nzfsa.govt.nz
Fax: (04) 463 2501
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