Source: Ministry for Primary Industries
Closing date
Have your say
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is undertaking public consultation as part of a review of the amendments to the kava standard in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Code). This is your opportunity to provide feedback on the amendments.
In March 2022, the FSANZ Board agreed on amendments to the Code as part of urgent Proposal P1057 to:
- ensure kava beverage is prepared and consumed in line with historically-safe practices
- clarify the current prohibition on the use of processing aids and food additives in the manufacture or processing of dried or raw kava root and kava beverages, and
- require that kava is sourced from Noble varieties of the kava plant, which have a history of safe use.
Making a submission
The FSANZ website details the process for the consultation and how to make a submission.
Proposal P1057 – Review of the kava standard
You will be asked to provide comments on the amended standard and propose any alternative options.
Email your submission no later than 16 November 2022, 8pm to submissions@foodstandards.gov.au
The feedback you provide to FSANZ will not automatically be shared with New Zealand government agencies. We also request you provide a copy of your feedback to transtasman@mpi.govt.nz
Background information
P1057 was an urgent proposal to amend the kava standard in the Code following the commencement of commercial importation of kava into Australia. The purpose of the proposal was to review the Code – including the existing Standard 2.6.3 – to ensure it continues to protect public health and safety.
The FSANZ Board agreed to the amendments in March 2022.
These amendments took immediate effect in Australia but have not been adopted into New Zealand law. This was to allow further time to assess their implications for New Zealand.
Next steps
FSANZ will have regard for all submissions as part of the review process and will decide whether to confirm the changes or prepare an alternative proposal.
This review will be completed by 23 March 2023 following which final decisions will be taken.
Who to contact
If you have any questions about the amended standard or the submission process, email transtasman@mpi.govt.nz
