The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is asking for feedback on proposed specifications for the manufacturing of infant formula.
“Infant formula is an important product that can be the sole source of nutrition for a vulnerable population group,” says Deborah Roche, Deputy Director-General Policy & Trade at MPI.
“As such, the specifications propose being more explicit about the technical requirements for infant formula manufacturing in a range of areas from building and equipment design, through to air quality management, ingredient management and packaging.”
The draft specifications have been developed as part of an inter-agency infant formula work programme.
“The objectives of the draft specifications support the sustainable growth of New Zealand’s infant formula exports. However, it’s important we ensure these requirements are not overly prescriptive or have unintended consequences for businesses. An industry technical working group assisted in the development of the standard, and we are now seeking wider industry input.”
MPI seeks submissions on the draft infant formula manufacturing specifications from all interested parties, and particularly from infant formula manufacturers and manufacturers of dairy ingredients intended for use in infant formula. Submissions on the draft manufacturing specifications close on Friday, 12 September 2014.
For consultation papers and further information:
http://www.mpi.govt.nz/news-resources/consultations
MPI is also consulting on draft standards (released on 9 July 2014) that set out proposals to clarify labelling requirements on export infant formula, and implement systems to improve MPI’s monitoring of infant formula exports to markets that do not currently require official New Zealand government assurances for infant formula exports. Submissions on these close on 20 August 2014.