Hawaii Enacts Law to Ensure Authentic Macadamia Nut Labeling

A new law in Hawaii, effective from January 1, 2024, mandates clearer labeling for macadamia nuts, a move aimed at protecting local growers and enhancing consumer awareness. Under the provisions of Act 199, any macadamia nut package sold in the state must indicate if it contains nuts cultivated outside of Hawaii. The required statement reads: “This package contains macadamia nuts that were not grown in Hawaii.”

Richard Cohen, the Measurement Standards Program Manager for the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, emphasized that this legislation is designed to provide truth in labeling for consumers. “It requires any supplier or packager of macadamia nuts in the state of Hawaii to add a statement to the package if there are foreign macadamia nuts,” Cohen explained.

Impact on Local Growers

The law’s impact is particularly significant for local farms like Tropical Farms, situated near Kaneohe, which exclusively grow and process their nuts within the state. Stevie-Jean Tufaga, President and General Manager of Tropical Farms, expressed support for the new regulation. “We really don’t have to change anything, because all of our nuts are 100 per cent grown and processed here in Hawaii,” Tufaga stated.

This regulation presents an opportunity for Hawaiian-grown farms to distinguish themselves in a marketplace that includes imported products. Tufaga noted, “We’re definitely going to put that on there because now we understand that perhaps some people are bringing in nuts from elsewhere. So it makes us stand out for sure.”

Cohen reiterated that the law guarantees accurate representation for local farmers. “The Hawaiian macadamia nut farmer is presented truthfully to the consumer, and they’re not being substituted as if they were Hawaiian macadamia nuts,” he said.

Benefits for the Local Economy

The implications of this law extend beyond labeling; they reflect a commitment to supporting Hawaii’s agricultural sector and local economy. Tufaga pointed out that the law adds value to Hawaiian-grown products, ultimately supporting farmers and the businesses that rely on them. “This supports the businesses and all of the employees that work here with us,” she said.

With the implementation of this law, consumers now have a clearer understanding of the products they are purchasing. Hawaiian macadamia nut farms can continue to highlight the quality and heritage of their 100 per cent locally grown offerings, reinforcing the unique identity of Hawaii’s agricultural landscape.

As a result, shoppers can make informed decisions, ensuring that they support local agriculture while enjoying the distinct flavors of Hawaiian macadamia nuts.