March 13, 2014

Fonterra accepts charges filed by New Zealand's Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), after investigating into events that led to the precautionary recall of the company's whey protein concentrate (WPC80) last year, although it was subsequently confirmed that the recalled products do not present health risks.

MPI examined whether Fonterra had complied with all its food safety and quality obligations, under New Zealand's Food Act and Animal Products Act in connection with the events leading to the precautionary recall.

MPI has filed four charges against Fonterra Limited relating to breaches of the Animal Products Act.

Fonterra's Managing Director People, Culture and Strategy Maury Leyland said Fonterra had co-operated fully with MPI throughout its investigation, and accepts responsibility for the allegations made in the charges.

Leyland said they are making good progress on implementing the necessary improvements the Operational Review and Independent Board Inquiry identified. They are also working with the Government to progress all the recommendations of its review of New Zealand's dairy food safety regulatory framework, undertaken last year. 

Fonterra is committed to complying with New Zealand's food safety and quality regulations, and being held accountable if it does not, said Leyland.