New Zealand Government's Potential Shift in Baby Formula Regulations
Source: dairynews.today
The New Zealand government is reconsidering its stance on Trans-Tasman rules concerning baby formula, following industry pressures and lobbying.
The New Zealand government is contemplating joining the Trans-Tasman rules on baby formula, reversing its previous decision to opt-out due to industry lobbying. This reconsideration comes after major companies, including Danone and The a2 Milk Company, changed their position and now support the regulations. Initially, New Zealand was concerned about the possible impact on its $2 billion annual infant formula exports.
The proposed standards aim to update two-decade-old rules and limit misleading claims. Danone, a2 Milk, and other companies had previously resisted changes that included restricting 'medical' formulas to pharmacies.
Now, they have dropped opposition to this, focusing instead on regulatory labeling restrictions. The Food Safety Minister, Andrew Hoggard, is involved in negotiating potential exemptions from labeling restrictions amid fears of Australian import constraints.
The dynamics of international trade relationships, company's market interests, and public health policies are at the forefront of these discussions, highlighting the delicate balance between economic influence and regulatory practices.
The proposed standards aim to update two-decade-old rules and limit misleading claims. Danone, a2 Milk, and other companies had previously resisted changes that included restricting 'medical' formulas to pharmacies.
Now, they have dropped opposition to this, focusing instead on regulatory labeling restrictions. The Food Safety Minister, Andrew Hoggard, is involved in negotiating potential exemptions from labeling restrictions amid fears of Australian import constraints.
The dynamics of international trade relationships, company's market interests, and public health policies are at the forefront of these discussions, highlighting the delicate balance between economic influence and regulatory practices.
