,"New Zealand’s Minister for Food Safety has launched a public consultation on a proposal to enable a limited, one-year trial of digital labelling for certain imported pre-packaged foods sold through approved retail stores. Under the proposal, participating retailers would receive a temporary exemption from the requirement that all mandatory food information be printed on the physical package, as required under section 343 of the Food Act 2014.
The trial aims to assess the feasibility of using **digital labels—such as QR codes, websites, and mobile applications—**to provide required food information as an adjunct to physical labels. Only foods imported from mature regulatory systems and already labelled in English would qualify, and higher-risk categories such as dietary supplements, infant formula, alcohol, and supplemented foods would be excluded.
Authorities will evaluate whether digital labelling can improve accessibility, transparency, efficiency, and affordability without compromising public health. Submissions are open from 20 November to 19 December 2025, and feedback will help determine whether a long-term compliance pathway for digital labelling should be developed."
Consumer News Region