HortNZ is continuing to work with the Ministry for Primary Industries and other industry parties on the new Act, which we expect to become law late this year or early next, and also on the transitional provisions which will be needed.

The Food Bill has passed a significant milestone with the Primary Production Committee reporting the Bill back to the House. The Committee’s report (incorporating their recommended changes to the Bill) can be accessed at this link:
http://www.parliament.nz/en-nz/pb/sc/documents/reports/50DBSCH_SCR6196_1/food-bill-160-3

Clause 14(1)(d) of the reported back Bill contains the provision that horticulture industry bodies have been asking for. The clause states that one of the principles to be applied in performing functions and duties under the Act are; “…the need to minimise costs for food businesses, and in particular, food businesses that operate under a private or industry programme that achieves the purpose of this Act”

Other issues that are dealt with by the extensive changes recommended in the Committee’s report include provisions about the relationship of the Act to the Wine Act, clearance of imported foods, the sale of food by small producers and powers to recall food.

Source: Horticulture New Zealand Newsletter May 14 2014