New Zealand Opts Out of Joint Australia-New Zealand Infant Formula Standard
Hoggard had until today to decide whether to adopt the new standards, which were developed over 11 years and encompassed more than 400 pages. These standards included stricter controls on the labeling and marketing of infant formula, aligning with an international code to promote breastfeeding over formula use. The changes would also have restricted the sale of specialist formula to pharmacies or direct sources, removing them from supermarket shelves.
However, after thorough discussions with Cabinet, the decision was made not to adopt the new joint standards. “New Zealand sought a review of the new labelling requirements, but my Australian colleagues were not in a position to support it. As a result, we will now implement a New Zealand standard over the next five years,” Hoggard said.
Hoggard emphasized the importance of maintaining consumer choice as long as infant formula remains safe and labels are not misleading. He noted that the vast majority of the proposed standard was supported by the industry, but the two specific parts related to labelling did not suit the New Zealand context.
Industry Reaction
The decision was welcomed by manufacturers such as Danone, which had expressed concerns that the new standard could jeopardize their operations in New Zealand and make export products less attractive. Maria Venetoulis of Danone commented, “Opt-out was the only decision that protects parent and caregiver access to important information and specialised infant formula in supermarkets.”
Opposition from Health Professionals
The New Zealand College of Midwives expressed disappointment with the decision, stating, “Parents and whānau using infant formula need accurate information about infant feeding. Misleading labelling on infant formula products can result in parents purchasing inappropriate products for their baby or buying more expensive products that make unsubstantiated claims about benefits.”
The College criticized the influence of industry marketing strategies on parents' choices and stressed the Government’s obligation to ensure access to impartial information free from commercial influences.
Political Support
Labour Leader Chris Hipkins supported the decision to opt out, citing the importance of maintaining New Zealand’s regulatory autonomy. He warned against simply adopting Australia’s regulatory regime without considering New Zealand's specific needs and interests.
