New Zealand plans changes to frozen berry import rules

Food authorities in New Zealand are looking at strengthening the import requirements for frozen berries. New Zealand Food Safety is inviting comments on proposals that include changing the imported food category of frozen berries from “increased regulatory interest (IRI)” to “high regulatory interest (HRI).” The new rules would apply to frozen berries, including mixed frozen food containing frozen berries imported from any country ready to eat. Fruits include blackberry, blueberry, cranberry, currants, raspberry, and strawberry. It does not cover RTE frozen berries subjected to a treatment to eliminate hazards, including norovirus and hepatitis A virus, as long as evidence of this can be provided, and RTE frozen processed food containing berries such as ice cream and frozen yogurt and desserts. New Zealand Food Safety proposes an 18-month transition period from the date of the new notice before the current clearance requirements are phased out. Over this period, importers of ...