New Zealand Food Safety has announced updated import regulations for frozen berries, aiming to enhance consumer safety and streamline border processes.
Effective from August 1, importers will have an 18-month transition period until January 31, 2026, to comply with the revised requirements.
Following a hepatitis A virus outbreak linked to frozen berries from Serbia in 2022-2023, which affected 39 individuals, authorities have taken steps to address concerns and mitigate future risks.
Vincent Arbuckle, Deputy Director-General of New Zealand Food Safety, emphasized the importance of safeguarding consumers against hepatitis A risks associated with frozen berries, which are not eliminated by freezing temperatures. The agency collaborated closely with major frozen berry importers to develop the updated regulations, receiving strong support for the changes.
Frozen berries have been reclassified from Increased Regulatory Interest to High Regulatory Interest foods, necessitating clearance for entry into the country. Microbiological testing requirements at the border have been replaced by stringent pre-shipping rules for manufacturers.
In a significant shift, the new regulations introduce independent and third-party certification to verify overseas manufacturers' adherence to New Zealand's food safety standards. This includes certification recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) or other approved alternatives assessed by the agency.
Arbuckle highlighted that these measures enhance confidence in managing risks associated with frozen berries before they reach New Zealand.
The regulations apply to various frozen berries, including blueberry, cranberry, raspberry, and strawberry, imported as ready-to-eat (RTE) products. Exemptions cover RTE frozen berries subjected to hazard-eliminating treatments and certain frozen processed foods containing berries.
During the consultation period, stakeholders expressed support for the new requirements, particularly endorsing third-party certification options. Concerns raised about the practicality of GFSI-recognized certification were addressed through alternative provisions.
Australia's Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) and the United States backed the proposed changes, demonstrating international support for New Zealand's food safety initiatives.
The implementation of these regulations reflects New Zealand's commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of its food imports, bolstering consumer confidence in the quality of frozen berry products.
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