Nutrition claims compliance, fresh produce guide updated

United Fresh New Zealand has released updated guidance to help horticulture producers and the wider industry promote the value of fresh produce while meeting food regulatory requirements.

The revised Guide to Complying with the Nutrition, Health and Related Claims Standard 1.2.7 of the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code is designed to ensure that any nutrition and health claims are backed by reliable and up-to-date evidence.

By clearly outlining what can and cannot be said, the guide supports consistent, compliant messaging across the fresh produce sector.

Regularly reviewed and updated, the latest version aligns with the New Zealand Food Composition Database, a source of nutritional information covering more than 2850 foods and ingredients commonly consumed in New Zealand.

Andrew Gibbs, Chair of the Aotearoa Horticulture Action Plan (AHAP), says the guide is a great example of United Fresh’s contribution to the plan.

“It is a valuable addition to the sector’s toolkit, helping horticulture producers and the wider industry communicate the health and nutrition benefits of fruit and vegetables.

“Ultimately, it supports the desired AHAP outcome of increasing fruit and vegetable consumption.”

While fresh produce is widely recognised for its health benefits, clear, science-based information ensures those benefits are communicated in a balanced and credible way.

For more information on the guide, visit here.

Image caption: iStock.com/Gulcin Ragiboglu