Friday, March 29, 2024

Raw milk sales allowed to continue

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The sale of raw milk from farmers to consumers is to continue. “After extensive consultation and review, the Government decision will allow farmers to continue to sell raw milk directly to the public from the farm and via home deliveries,” Food Safety Minister Jo Goodhew said.
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“I recognise that people feel strongly about their right to buy and drink raw milk. Equally, I am also aware of the strong concerns about the public health risks associated with drinking raw milk and the potential risk to New Zealand’s food safety reputation.

“We have worked hard to find the right balance between managing the risks to public health while recognising the demand from rural and urban consumers to access raw milk,” she said.

Goodhew said requirements would be put in place for those who traded raw milk because no matter how carefully animals are milked, the presence of harmful bacteria in unpasteurised milk could cause serious illness. 

Under the new policy, farmers would need to register with the Ministry for Primary Industries, meet hygiene requirements, test milk for pathogens, keep records of sales and label appropriately so consumers were aware of the risks and could make informed decisions about consuming raw milk.

“People who make cheese for their family will be pleased there will be no limit on the quantity of raw milk they can purchase, nor is there a restriction on the amount farmers can sell overall.

“We looked at a number of options during this review and decided against prohibiting or limiting volume of sales of raw milk.

“Our focus has been to ensure raw milk is available for those who actively seek it, and that people are well aware of the risks associated with drinking it.

"I believe this policy will achieve both these goals,” Goodhew said.

The new requirements for farmers who sell raw milk will come into force by March 1, 2016. For more information go to www.foodsafety.govt.nz.

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