What is a dual operator butcher?
You're a dual operator butcher (DOB) if you do both of these in the same premises or place:
- operate a retail butchery
- process (but don't sell) homekill or recreational catch.
Our guidance document has more information about the meaning of the words "same premises or place".
Homekill: Activities occurring at the “same premises or place” [PDF, 96 KB]
Preventing cross-contamination
Preventing cooked or ready-to-eat foods from becoming contaminated by other activities in your shop is your most important food safety activity.
Cross-contamination can happen in several ways, such as when:
- there's direct contact between cooked and raw meat
- cooked food is placed on dirty surfaces
- someone touches cooked food after handling raw product.
Preventing cross-contamination in butcher shops [PDF, 503 KB]
Legal requirements of dual operator butchers
Dual operator butchers must:
- develop and operate under a verified risk management programme, and
- be listed with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) as a homekill and recreational catch service provider.
Find out more
Animal Products Act 1999 – NZ Legislation
Animal Product Regulations 2021 – NZ Legislation
Animal Product Notice: Production, Supply and Processing [PDF, 2.6 MB]
Food standards code
Dual operator butchers also need to meet standards under the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code. This applies to all food. Refer to Parts 1 and 2.2.1 for requirements that apply to dual operator butchers.
Food Standards Code – Food Standards Australia New Zealand
Developing your risk management programme
To develop a risk management programme (RMP) you can either use the template we've made, or write your own plan.
Using our template
We've provided a template to help you develop an RMP. You can download this as a PDF.
Risk management programme template for dual operator butchers [PDF, 1.9 MB]
Writing your own plan
You can choose to write your own RMP, or get a consultant to help you write one.
If you don't use our template, you'll need to get your plan evaluated by a recognised RMP evaluator. You can search for one in the register.
Registering your risk management programme
Once you've finished developing your RMP, complete the application form.
Application form AP4: Registration of risk management programme [PDF, 305 KB]
Make sure you tick the box in Section 3 of the form. This makes sure you're added to our register of listed homekill and recreational catch service providers.
Listed homekill and recreational catch service providers
Getting your risk management programme verified
Your RMP needs to be verified by a recognised agency. When you apply to register your RMP, you'll need to include a letter from your chosen agency confirming that they're willing to verify your RMP.
Find a verifier working under the Animal Products Act – New Zealand Food Safety
Find out more
Homekill and recreational catch meat or game
Who to contact
If you have questions about dual operator butchers, email info@mpi.govt.nz
