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Response to Herald letter ‘Taking Issue with Growth’ of July 8

Dr Martin Brook’s views on the review of food safety regulations around “sausage sizzles and cake stalls” (Taking issue with growth, Friday July 8) unfortunately continues the misinformation that has sprouted alongside the issue.

He claims that taking a fresh look at whether the standards of food safety at such events are appropriate is another example of the “nanny state” in action. What he doesn’t consider is that regulations in this area have existed for 30 years.

All food for sale, including that sold to raise funds, has been covered since 1974 by the Food Hygiene Regulations, since 1981 by the Food Act, and from various dates by local authority bylaws. All of these regulations place requirements on the people preparing and selling food - even at fundraisers - which is often reflected through a permit system from the local authority.

The review of New Zealand’s food regulations that is being undertaken (the Domestic Food Review) is long overdue. It is only the second re-evaluation of domestic food controls in 30 years, and aims to streamline the myriad of at times confusing rules and regulations that have developed.

The New Zealand public and industry are encouraged to have their say on how things should be. Nothing is set in concrete. Ultimately it is for the community to decide, and that is why we are publicly reviewing the existing regulations over a period of years rather than months.

Andrew McKenzie, Executive Director, New Zealand Food Safety Authority