Serving kava
If you want to sell, handle or consume kava, you must comply with the standard for kava under the Food Standard Code.
Kava is a plant native to the Pacific Islands that has been used as a ceremonial and relaxing drink by people of that region for centuries. The traditional kava drink is prepared by mixing powdered kava root with water.
Kava is also contained in some medicinal products such as tablets, capsules and tea bags for the treatment of anxiety.
When kava is a food
Kava is considered a food if it is:
- a beverage made from dissolving kava root using cold water only and not using any organic solvent
- dried or raw kava root.
All other forms of kava are prescription only medicines and are regulated under the Medicines, Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 2008.
Selling or providing kava
If your business sells or provide kava as a food, you must include these warning statements:
- use in moderation
- may cause drowsiness.
If your business provides kava to the public, you may need a food business registration.
Declared events serving kava
If you have a food stall that sells kava at a declared event, such as the National Multicultural Festival, you must:
- register your business
- nominate a food safety supervisor.
This includes non-profit community organisations.
Importing kava
For information about importing kava, go to the Office of Drug Control website.
Contact
Contact the Health Protection Service on 02 5124 9700 or hps@act.gov.au.