In good news for both consumers and the food industry, a legislation change requiring food businesses to carry out a simulated recall every 12 months comes into effect tomorrow.
"A simulated recall tests the ability of a business to trace and recall their products, ensuring they are prepared if a genuine food recall is required to prevent or limit harm to consumers," said New Zealand Food Safety acting deputy-directory general Jenny Bishop.
"Consumer safety is always the priority when there is a recall. Businesses must act quickly and accurately to identify and remove at-risk products from shelves. Having effective systems in place to do that protects people from contaminated food, which can cause serious harm."
From the 1st of July 2023, all businesses with a plan or programme under the Food Act, Wine Act, or Animal Products Act, as well as food importers and exporters, will need to carry out a simulated recall at least every 12 months.
"Just like fire or earthquake drills, a simulated recall will help businesses ensure their procedures work, staff know what to do, and any gaps are identified before a real emergency arises."
Bishop continued that all food businesses have a role in ensuring food safety in New Zealand. Practising for a food recall ensures businesses will know how to play their part when problems are identified.
She explained that food businesses strive to make sure the food they produce is safe. However, from time to time, things can go wrong, and food businesses must be ready to recall unsafe food quickly.
Businesses can get guidance from New Zealand Food Safety to help them fix any issues found in the test run to improve the speed and effectiveness of any recalls they have to carry out.
To help food businesses prepare for the introduction of mandatory simulated recalls, New Zealand Food Safety has developed guidance and resources. It has been engaging with the industry about the new requirement over the past few years.
New Zealand Food Safety has a toolbox to create a scenario and procedures for a simulated food recall on its website. It will continue to work with verifiers, businesses, and other groups to educate the industry about the new requirements and best practices for food recalls.
Bishop recommended that all subscribe to New Zealand Food Safety's food recall alerts on its website so that anyone who has already bought recalled food is notified immediately.
"It is vital that all consumers respond to recall information to keep themselves and their whānau safe."
