Food Safety Minister, Andrew Hoggard, has today confirmed New Zealand will opt out of the Australia New Zealand joint infant formula standard.
“After discussion with Cabinet, Cabinet has decided not to adopt the Australia New Zealand joint infant formula standard,” said the Minister.
He said New Zealand had sought a review of the new labelling requirements, but Australia was “not in a position to support it”.
“As a result, we will now implement a New Zealand standard over the next five years.”
“So long as infant formula is safe and the claims on labels are not misleading, consumers should be allowed to make their own informed choices.
“We were only wanting modifications to two parts of the standard that relate to restrictions on labelling and do not suit the New Zealand context. The vast majority of the standard is good and supported by industry.
“The Government remains committed to the continued success of the Joint Food System and working towards food standards harmonisation,” said Mr Hoggard.
