Call for submissions for changes to Australian food law
The following are from media releases from Food Standards Australia new Zealand (FSANZ) and are included here with permission.
FSANZ consultation paper proposes new approach to regulation of nutritive substances and novel foods
(26 March 2012)
Food Standards Australian New Zealand (FSANZ) today released a consultation paper on a proposed new approach to regulating nutritive substances and novel foods.
Under the current Food Standards Code, nutritive substances are foods that are not normally consumed as food on their own or used as an ingredient, for example an amino acid. Novel foods are foods or substances that don’t have a history of human consumption.
FSANZ Chief Executive Officer Steve McCutcheon said there had been some difficulty in interpreting the current definitions for nutritive substances and novel foods, which led to FSANZ exploring a new approach.
“Under the proposed alternative approach, definitions in the Code for these substances and foods would be removed,” Mr McCutcheon said.
“They would be replaced with criteria for eligible foods. Foods that don’t meet the criteria would be deemed non-eligible and would need to be assessed. If considered safe to eat, they would be listed as permitted in the Code.
“FSANZ welcomes comments on the consultation paper from government agencies, public health professionals, industry and the community on the application.”
The closing date for submissions is 21 May 2012.
Horticulture report released for consultation
(26 March 2012)
Food Standards Australia New Zealand called for submissions today on a report looking at the safety of fresh produce including fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, tree nuts and edible flowers.
FSANZ Chief Executive Officer Steve McCutcheon said this work was part of a series of national food safety standards which apply throughout the food supply chain – from paddock to plate.
“Surveys show that the horticulture sector does a good job in managing food safety risks associated with fresh produce,” Mr McCutcheon said.
“The majority of fresh horticultural produce grown in Australia is produced under industry-based food safety schemes.
“However, food safety hazards can occur which can cause illness in the community and costs to industry.
“FSANZ is exploring if regulatory or additional non-regulatory measures are needed to manage these hazards in conjunction with existing schemes.”
Comments are invited from government agencies, industry and consumers on the Assessment Report.
The closing date for submissions is 21 May 2012.
Call for submissions on minor meat species proposal
(26 March 2012)
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) today called for submissions on a proposal looking at possible food safety measures for producers and processors of minor meat species and wild game.
FSANZ Chief Executive Officer Steve McCutcheon said species covered by the primary production and processing proposal included kangaroo, crocodile, rabbit, ostrich and emu.
“Primary production and processing standards set out obligations for primary producers and processors at critical points in the food chain,” Mr McCutcheon said.
“For example, where appropriate, in primary production there may be obligations for inputs such as feed and water to be managed.”
“There are existing requirements in Australian Standards for meat processing for some of these species however there is no process for reviewing or updating these standards.
“One of the options FSANZ is looking at would involve including processing controls currently in place under Australian Standards in the Food Standards Code.”
The closing date for submissions is 21 May 2012.
More information
Consultation paper – Proposed future regulation of nutritive substances and novel foods in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (word 537 kb) | (pdf 1062 kb)
FSANZ’s latest notification circular
Media contact: 0401 714 265 (Australia) or +61 401 714 265 (from New Zealand) or email media@foodstandards.gov.au