Composition requirements for kava sold in New Zealand
Permitted kava products for sale in New Zealand are:
- dried or raw kava root
- a beverage obtained by the aqueous suspension of kava root using cold water only, and not using any organic solvent.
The use of processing aids and food additives are not permitted in the production of kava for sale.
Labelling requirements for kava sold in New Zealand
As well as following general food labelling requirements, there are some additional rules for kava.
If sold in a package, the label must contain 2 warning statements:
- 'Use in moderation'
- 'May cause drowsiness'.
If sold without a package, you still need to provide the 2 warning statements, and the name and address of the supplier. You can do this either:
- by displaying it on signs with the kava, or
- by providing it in printed information that will go with the kava when it is sold.
General food labelling requirements
Drink labelling and composition rules that apply to all foods
Kava importers
If you wish to import kava for sale in New Zealand, you need to register as a food importer and follow New Zealand's food importing rules.
Decision made about kava Standard in April 2023
New Zealand has not adopted the most recent Amendment No. 206 to the kava Standard in the joint Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code into New Zealand law. As a result, Standard 2.6.3 Kava (gazetted on 3 June 2021) following Amendment No. 200, remains in effect in New Zealand.
The NZ version of Standard 2.6.3 Kava is available to download for your reference.
Standard 2.6.3 Kava – Food Standards - Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code [PDF, 394 KB]
Find out more about the kava Standard
Review of the kava standard by Food Standards Australia New Zealand
