Have your say
The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is inviting feedback on proposed changes to New Zealand’s kava food standard.
The proposed changes include:
- clarifying the existing rule that processing aids and additives are not allowed in the preparation of kava.
- prohibiting the use of non-noble varieties of kava.
This consultation opened on 9 February and runs until 11.59pm on 27 February 2026.
Why we are proposing these changes
Kava sourced from noble varieties has a history of safe use in New Zealand.
Making the standard clearer about the prohibition of processing aids and food additives will make the rules easier to follow. This will help maintain the safety of kava use.
These changes align with the joint Food and Agriculture Organization and World Health Organisation Codex Alimentarius Commission 'Regional Standard for Kava Products for use as a Beverage When Mixed with Water' (CXS 336R-2020 ).
Full details about the changes are in the discussion document.
Discussion document
Proposed changes to the kava standard [PDF, 387 KB]
Discussion document in other languages
Fijian: Proposed changes to the kava standard [PDF, 249 KB]
Samoan: Proposed changes to the kava standard [PDF, 249 KB]
Tongan: Proposed changes to the kava standard [PDF, 252 KB]
Webinar
Between 12 noon and 1.30pm on Monday 23 February 2026 we are hosting a webinar on the proposed changes. This will be an opportunity to hear more about the proposals, provide feedback, and learn how to make a submission.
Register your interest in attending the webinar – Microsoft Teams
Background information about the kava standard
The current kava standard sets composition and labelling requirements for kava sold in New Zealand.
Standard 2.6.3 Kava: Food Standards – Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code [PDF, 394 KB]
Kava products for sale must be either:
- dried or raw kava root, or
- beverages containing kava root mixed with cold water. The use of processing aids or food additives is not allowed.
Kava products in packaging must be labelled with 2 warning statements: ‘Use in moderation’ and ‘May cause drowsiness.’ Where products are sold without packaging, these statements must be displayed on signs during sale or in printed form that will go with the kava when it is sold.
Making a submission
Submissions will be accepted until 11.59pm on 27 February 2026.
Make an online submission – SurveyMonkey
Email and postal submissions
While we prefer online submissions, you can send us your feedback by email or post.
Email your submissions to kava@mpi.govt.nz
Submissions sent by post should be addressed to:
Food Policy team
Policy and Trade directorate
New Zealand Food Safety
Ministry for Primary Industries
PO Box 2526
Wellington 6140
New Zealand.
What to include in email or postal submissions
- Your name and title (if applicable).
- Your organisation's name (if applicable).
- Your address.
