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NZFSA launches Maori strategy

27 June 2007

The New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZFSA) has launched its strategy for working with Maori on food safety issues

Based on the principles of partnership, participation and protection, NZFSA has developed the strategy to help support a consistent approach to food safety as it affects Maori.

Called A Shared Vision it will also help provide a broader perspective on the relationship between Maori and NZFSA and identify areas where both would benefit from a closer relationship.

Raniera Bassett, NZFSA’s Programme Manager for Community Extension explains: “Maori have cultural and spiritual obligations to provide food at hui, on Marae and in a variety of settings to maintain the dignity of kaumatua (Maori elders), whanau, hapu and iwi.

“This strategy presents an opportunity for NZFSA, in consultation with Marae runanga (boards or committees) kaumatua, whanau, hapu and iwi to work together strategically to promote greater awareness of food safety and suitability issues.”

The strategy also outlines how the relationship will enhance the outcomes of NZFSA’s strategic goals of protecting and promoting consumer health, supporting New Zealand’s economic growth and prosperity, and enhancing international trade in food and food-related products.

Its main aims are to:

• raise levels of food safety awareness and foodborne illness risks

• raise awareness of the development, application and promotion of those food standards that may impact on Maori – such as additives, nutrition and information labels

• highlight the need to focus on consumer and food education/training policies for Maori

• maintain the sanctity of kai from a tikanga Maori perspective.

Says Raniera: “Consumer information around food suitability issues, particularly as they relate to labelling and nutrition is important to Maori and the public health gains are significant for Maori, who are more at risk of food-related diseases such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes.”

NZFSA believes relationships with Maori can be developed on and off the Marae. Different approaches may be needed regarding transfer of information, knowledge and communication between NZFSA and Maori – especially to reach those off the Marae.

Raniera adds: “The work we in NZFSA have done in working with Maori to date – for example Food Safety Practices When Preparing and Cooking a Hangi and other educational resources – is a great start to making this strategy a very practical initiative.”

New Zealand Food Safety Authority Strategy for Involving Maori in Food Safety and Consumer Protection Issues is available from NZFSA’s website at:
www.nzfsa.govt.nz/policy-law/publications/papers/index.htm.

Ends

For further comment contact: Carole Inkster, NZFSA Policy Director: 029 894 2505
Raniera Bassett, Community Extension Programme Manager: 029 894 2449.

For further information contact: Diane Robinson, NZFSA Communications: 029 894 2528.