Labelling genetically modified (GM) foods
A GM food is a food derived from an organism or cells containing novel DNA resulting from genetic modification. GM foods sold in New Zealand have specific labelling requirements.
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) approves GM foods and ingredients. Approved GM foods and ingredients are in Schedule 26 of the Food Standards Code.
If the food you sell contains any GM foods or ingredients that contain novel DNA or novel protein, you must label the food or ingredient as GM. Novel DNA and novel protein are defined in Standard 1.5.2 of the Food Standards Code.
Standard 1.5.2 Genetically modified food - FSANZ
Some foods that have been genetically modified to alter their characteristics also need to be labelled as GM, even if novel DNA or novel protein is not present in the final food. This includes soybean oil with modified fatty acid content. These foods are also listed in Schedule 26 of the Food Standards Code.
You can find more about labelling GM food in the Food Standards Code.
Exemptions from GM food and ingredient labelling
You do not need to declare food or ingredients that contain GM material if:
- the product contains less than 1% of an approved GM material, and
- the inclusion of GM material was unintentional (for example, due to cross-contact during processing or manufacture).
GM foods prepared and sold from food premises
If you sell food with GM ingredients in a restaurant, café, takeaway, or from a vending machine, you don't need to label it as GM. But your staff must be able to tell customers if they ask.
Find out more
Genetically modified (GM) food labelling – FSANZ
Who to contact
If you have questions about labelling GM food, email info@mpi.govt.nz