What is the Food Residues Survey Programme?
The FRSP monitors chemical and microbiological contaminants in foods sold in New Zealand. This could be domestic or imported foods. FRSP samples are typically collected from foods that are not part of other Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) monitoring programmes.
Find out more about MPI food monitoring programmes
How does the FRSP work?
Sample types collected depend on the scope of the survey. They can cover food when it's still being produced through to when it's sold to consumers.
What does the FRSP test?
Testing depends on the the type of the survey. Typically, screening tests used in surveys include between 200 and 500 different pesticide residues in crops and plant-based food.
What residue detections are assessed for
For domestic foods:
Maximum residue levels for agricultural compounds
For imported foods from Australia:
Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code
For imported foods:
Codex pesticide residues in food online database – Food and Agriculture Organization
When test results exceed a maximum residue level (MRL) or are unexpected
- New Zealand Food Safety assesses how exposed New Zealanders might be to that contaminant or chemical through what they eat (dietary exposure). The assessment is done for different age groups in New Zealand.
- The grower or importer is contacted for a follow up.
- If trends are found, we work with other government agencies and industry groups to address the issues identified.
FRSP results
We publish reports that have recent results, and more information on how sampling and testing is done.
Subscribe to keep up to date
You can subscribe to get updates on the Food Residues Survey Programme.
Who to contact
If you have questions about the FRSP, email info@mpi.govt.nz
