Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code - Standard 2.6.3 - Kava

Standard 2.6.3

Kava

Purpose

This Standard contains restrictions on the parts of the Piper methysticum (kava) plant which may be sold under food legislation, and provides requirements for labelling. The Standard also prohibits the use of kava as an ingredient in food.

In Australia, this Standard should be considered in conjunction with the Customs (Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956 and certain State and Territory restrictions on the supply of kava which seek to minimise the detrimental effects associated with kava abuse. Where kava is permitted for supply, the requirements in this Standard complement those restrictions.

Table of Provisions

1 Interpretation

2 Prohibition

3 Labelling

1 Interpretation

In this Standard –

cold water extraction means the aqueous suspension of kava using cold water only and excludes the use of any organic solvent.

2 Prohibition

(1) Piper methysticum (kava) or any derived substance must not be sold unless it is –

(a) a beverage obtained by cold water extraction; or
(b) the dried or raw form

of the peeled root or peeled rootstock of plants of the species Piper methysticum.

(2) Kava must not be used as an ingredient in foods.

3 Labelling

(1) There shall be written in the label on or attached to a package containing kava, the following statements –

(a) ‘Use in moderation’; and
(b) ‘May cause drowsiness’.

(2) Where kava is other than in a package –

(a) the name and business address in Australia or New Zealand of the supplier of the food; and
(b) the statements under subclause 3(1);

must be displayed on or in connection with the display of the food.

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