New labeling rules for macadamia nut products sold in Hawaii went into effect on January 1, 2026. The change follows the passage of Act 199 by the Hawaii State Legislature and its enactment by Governor Josh Green in 2024. The law amends section HRS 486-120.5 to strengthen truth-in-labeling requirements and clarify for consumers the origin of macadamia nuts used in packaged products.
The updated regulation requires that if a product contains raw or processed macadamia nuts not grown in Hawaii, the packaging must state: “This package contains macadamia nuts that were not grown in Hawaiʻi.” There is no requirement to disclose the exact location where the nuts were grown or what percentage of the contents are from outside Hawaii. Products such as candies, energy bars, cookies, baked goods, and ice cream—where macadamia nuts are not the main ingredient—are exempt from this requirement.
Sharon Hurd, chairperson of the Hawaii Board of Agriculture and Biosecurity, said: “The new law aims to enhance, preserve and protect the premium brand of Hawai‘i-grown macadamia nuts. Truth in labeling should prevent companies from misusing the origin of the actual macadamia product used and help to assure consumers that they are getting a true Hawai‘i product rather than one that has been outsourced from another country.”
All products must comply with these rules as of January 1, 2026. The Measurement Standards Branch at the Hawaii Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity has worked with industry representatives since 2024 to guide them on new packaging requirements.
In 2023, Hawaii’s macadamia nut crop was valued at $3.9 million with approximately 37 million pounds harvested, according to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Statistics Service. Further details about production can be found at https://www.nass.usda.gov/Statistics_by_State/Hawaii/Publications/Fruits_and_Nuts/FTNTHI052024.pdf
Questions regarding compliance can be directed to the Measurement Standards Branch at 808-832-0690 or via email.