Beef and lamb labelling change kicks in

Lamb and beef imported from Australia will now be labelled as such. Photo / Paul Estcourt

All imported beef and lamb will now carry a label notifying Kiwi consumers of the product's country of origin.

While most beef and lamb for sale in New Zealand is produced by local farmers, a very small amount comes from Australia.

A change which comes into effect today means most retailers will voluntarily label any meat from across the Tasman as 'Product of Australia'.

Rod Slater, head of Beef + Lamb New Zealand, said the move was instigated by meat retailers around the country.

"It was a unanimous decision by Quality Mark retailers to support country of origin labelling and it shows how proud we are of the product we produce."

The Quality Mark, which was introduced in 2007, is a red, yellow and black rosette which confirms the meat is from New Zealand.

Slater said beef and lamb was generally only imported in certain circumstances but customers had a right to know the origin of their food.

"It is namely brought in if there is an occasional supply issue, or if companies are running particularly big promotions.

"Even so, it is great to be able to give customers a clear message, as we recognise country of origin is becoming increasingly important to Kiwis," he said.

Beef + Lamb NZ is funded by farmers, retailers and processors to promote Kiwi product.

- NZ HERALD ONLINE