Green list MP Steffan Browning, who lives in Marlborough, wants the Government to reopen public consultation on the New Zealand Food Bill, now before Parliament.
A viral internet campaign is feeding mostly unwarranted fears about the proposed bill, Mr Browning said. These include the ability of people to sell produce from their front gate or even swap vegetables with neighbours.
It would be wise for a fresh Parliament to ensure concerns got a good airing rather than just making quick amendments to the bill, he said.
Mr Browning also urged Food Safety Minister Kate Wilkinson to produce draft changes before the bill’s second reading, which would probably be in February.