Who do I report to if I find something in my food or see a dirty shop?
Complain to your local council. Councils handle complaints about foreign objects in food, hygiene, food handling, how food is displayed or stored, and food labels. Some food businesses are registered with MPI, and the council will pass these complaints to MPI. Keep the food, the unwashed packaging, the receipt and photos as evidence.
Official figures
- Where to check recalls
- The Recalled food products list on the MPI website1
- New Zealand Food Safety phone
- 0800 008 3332
- Use by
- About safety: do not eat food after its use by date, as it may make you sick. It is illegal to sell food past its use by date.2
- Best before
- About quality: food is usually still safe to eat after this date. If it looks and smells fine, it is usually OK. Shops can still sell it, as long as it is safe.2
- Fridge temperature
- Set between 2°C and 5°C2
Official sources
- Food health and safetyGovt.nz (Department of Internal Affairs) · govt.nz
- Food safety at home (booklet, updated May 2025)New Zealand Food Safety (MPI) · mpi.govt.nz
- A guide to food labellingNew Zealand Food Safety (MPI) · mpi.govt.nz
- Make a complaint about food poisoningGovt.nz (Department of Internal Affairs) · govt.nz
Read the full guide: Food safety and food recalls →
People also ask
- How do I check if food I bought at the supermarket has been recalled?
- What should I do if food I bought is recalled?
- What is the difference between 'use by' and 'best before'? Can I eat food after the date?
- How many days can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
- I got sick after eating at a restaurant. Where do I report food poisoning?
- Imported food at an ethnic grocery store has no English label. Is that allowed?
Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.
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