Bringing Sole Traders automated tax payments and filings!

We speak to hundreds of people setting up businesses every year and many are doing it for the first time.

If you are setting out on your own and thinking about navigating your accounts and taxes as a "Sole Trader" then you really should speak to Hnry

Are you worried about of the hassle of managing your taxes? Look no further! We are excited to announce our partnership with Hnry, an innovative online accountancy software that takes care of your tax payments automatically. Say goodbye to the stress and confusion of tax season and let Hnry handle it all for you.

🔎 Find out more here

☎️ Or Book a free call with one of Hnry's experts.

Starting a food business can be an exciting venture, but it also comes with numerous challenges, particularly in terms of compliance and licensing. Navigating the complex landscape of regulations and requirements can be overwhelming for small startup food businesses.

This is where the expertise of an agent can prove invaluable. In this blog article, we will explore why it is wise for small startup food businesses to utilize an agent to assist with compliance and licensing, highlighting the benefits they bring to the table.

1. Expert Knowledge and Guidance:

Agents specialising in compliance and licensing possess extensive knowledge of the food industry regulations and requirements. They stay up to date with the ever-evolving legal landscape, ensuring that small businesses remain compliant with relevant laws. These agents can guide startups through the process, helping them understand and meet the necessary criteria for licenses, permits, and certifications.

2. Time and Cost Savings:

Compliance and licensing processes can be time-consuming and complex. Small startup food businesses often have limited resources and personnel, making it challenging to dedicate sufficient time to these critical tasks. By engaging an agent, businesses can offload the burden of navigating these processes, freeing up valuable time to focus on other aspects of their operations. Moreover, agents' expertise can minimise delays and prevent costly mistakes, potentially saving businesses from fines, penalties, or lengthy processing times.

3. Customised Solutions:

Agents understand that each food business is unique, with specific requirements and challenges. They can provide tailored solutions that address the individual needs of the startup, ensuring compliance while optimising efficiency. Agents work closely with businesses to assess their operations, identify gaps, and develop strategies to meet compliance standards effectively. This personalised approach helps businesses establish a strong foundation for long-term success.

4. Networking and Industry Connections:

Established agents in the food industry have extensive networks and connections with regulatory bodies, local authorities, and other professionals. These connections can prove beneficial for small startup food businesses, as agents can leverage their relationships to expedite processes, access resources, and gain valuable insights. Agents' familiarity with local industry dynamics also allows them to provide advice and guidance specific to the region, further assisting startups in their compliance journey.

5. Continuous Support and Compliance Monitoring:

Compliance is an ongoing process, and regulations may change over time. An agent can provide ongoing support to small food businesses, ensuring they remain up to date with any amendments or new requirements. Agents can conduct regular compliance audits and assessments to identify any areas that need attention, helping businesses stay ahead of potential issues and maintain a strong compliance record.

For small startup food businesses, compliance and licensing can be daunting tasks. Engaging an agent specialising in compliance and licensing services brings numerous benefits. Their expertise, guidance, and industry connections can streamline the compliance process, saving valuable time and resources. Utilising an agent allows startups to focus on their core business while ensuring they meet the necessary legal requirements to operate in the food industry. By leveraging the knowledge and support of an agent, small food businesses can establish a solid foundation for success and confidently navigate the complex regulatory landscape.

Book a call with us to chat through how The Food Business can help.

Food safety is of utmost importance for consumers, and any concerns about contaminated or unsafe products can lead to nationwide recalls. In New Zealand, a series of food recalls has taken place this year, involving a wide range of products. From popular snacks to pantry staples, several brands have been affected, causing a stir among consumers and raising questions about food safety practices. In this blog post, we will delve into the food recall situation in New Zealand so far this year, exploring the specific products and brands that have been recalled due to safety concerns.

Some Examples of Recalled Products in 2023:

1. Lotte brand Almond Pepero and White Cookie Pepero: These popular snack products were recalled due to undisclosed allergens, posing a potential risk to individuals with allergies or sensitivities. The recall was initiated to prevent any adverse reactions and ensure consumer safety.

2. Dreamview Creamery brand Raw Milk (unpasteurized): Raw milk has been a subject of debate due to the potential presence of harmful bacteria. The recall of Dreamview Creamery's Raw Milk emphasizes the importance of pasteurization, as unpasteurized milk carries a higher risk of foodborne illnesses.

3. Durra brand Tahina and Halawa: Contamination concerns prompted the recall of Durra brand Tahina and Halawa. The recall was issued as a precautionary measure to prevent potential health hazards associated with the consumption of these products.

4. Lindsay Farm brand Organic Raw Milk (unpasteurized): Similar to Dreamview Creamery's recall, Lindsay Farm's Organic Raw Milk faced concerns regarding the potential presence of harmful bacteria. The recall aimed to safeguard consumers from potential health risks associated with consuming unpasteurized milk.

5. New World Hutt City brand NZ Beef Prime Mince: Recalls can occur due to a variety of reasons, and in this case, the New World Hutt City brand's NZ Beef Prime Mince was recalled due to a labeling issue. The recall ensured that accurate information was provided to consumers, maintaining transparency and trust.

6. Maketū Pies brand Steak & Mushroom Pie: Food safety protocols are crucial for ensuring the quality and safety of ready-to-eat products. The recall of Maketū Pies' Steak & Mushroom Pie highlights the importance of adhering to stringent manufacturing and quality control processes.

Impact and Consumer Awareness:

Food recalls not only affect the brands involved but also have a significant impact on consumer confidence and trust. In response to these recalls, New Zealand's regulatory authorities and manufacturers have taken proactive measures to notify the public, urging them to check their pantries and dispose of the affected products. Such actions help in containing potential health risks and assuring consumers that their safety is a top priority.

It is worth noting that food recalls should not be seen as an indictment of an entire brand or industry. These incidents serve as reminders of the importance of robust quality control measures and continuous monitoring to maintain food safety standards.

Food recalls can occur for various reasons, ranging from labelling issues to potential health hazards. The food recall situation in New Zealand this year has highlighted the significance of consumer safety and the diligence required by manufacturers and regulatory bodies in maintaining food quality standards.

By promptly addressing these recalls, manufacturers and authorities demonstrate their commitment to consumer well-being. It is essential for consumers to stay informed and heed the advice provided during such recalls to ensure their safety and make informed choices when purchasing food products.

Through stringent regulations, transparent communication, and continuous efforts to improve safety practices, New Zealand can maintain its reputation for providing safe and reliable food products to its consumers.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is based on the available data at the time of writing. For the most up-to-date information regarding specific recalls, please refer to official sources and regulatory authorities.