MPI applies a risk management framework to ensure any response or regulation is proportional to the risk a situation presents. This is consistent with the New Zealand Biotechnology Strategy which promotes innovation to benefit the wealth, health and environment of New Zealanders.

MPI generally does not regulate non-commercial food. This means that non-commercial food and related activities are generally not subject to legal requirements for food safety. MPI manages safety risks of non-commercial food by carrying out non-regulatory intervention. This includes providing information, messages and advice (‘risk communication’) that support safe food practices, decisions and consumption within the community, home, and marae. MPI also monitors certain food safety hazards.

This paper examines how one particular aspect of government regulatory activity is now
undertaken: the setting and operation of the regulatory framework in which food producers,
manufacturers and retailers operate.