NZPork urges ham buyers to check labels for New Zealand origin
Imported pork can be processed or packaged here, so the front of the pack is no guide to origin.
|November 5, 2026Listen to the full interview:
NZPork is urging Christmas shoppers to check the back of a ham pack to make sure the pork was born and raised in New Zealand.
NZPork chair Mark Hooper says the front of a packet can look as though the product is from New Zealand when it has only been processed or packaged here. “It is confusing for shoppers.”
He says the country-of-origin label should list New Zealand only, and some retailers add their own 100% New Zealand stickers.
Hooper says people pre-ordering from a butcher should ask where the ham comes from.
He says about 60% of pork is imported. “Pork returns have remained pretty flat.”
Hooper says NZPork will take the labelling issue up with the incoming government.
To learn more, visit nzpork.co.nz
Watch the full interview:
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