Call for submissions to changes in Food Standards Code

The following is provided with permission from Food Standards Australia New Zealand.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has called for submissions on the following proposals;

1. To review existing limits for Listeria monocytogenes in the Food Standards Code.

FSANZ Chief Executive Officer Steve McCutcheon said that since the limits were first set, preventative food safety requirements had been introduced and new limits had been established internationally.

“These changes mean it’s time for FSANZ to review the limits in the code to ensure we are providing a nationally consistent approach and where possible, harmonising our standards with those set by international standard-setting bodies,” Mr McCutcheon said.

“FSANZ is also exploring what tools would need to be developed to help industry and enforcement agencies apply any new approach.”

L. monocytogenes causes the serious illness, listeriosis, in some people. People particularly at risk of listeriosis include pregnant women, their unborn and newborn babies, the elderly, and other people whose immune systems have been weakened by illness or immuno-suppressant drugs.

The review of the limits for L. monocytogenes is the first stage of a broader review of microbiological limits in the Code.

The closing date for submissions on Proposal P1017 is 16 November 2012.

2.  Application to permit the irradiation of tomatoes and capsicums.

FSANZ Chief Executive Officer Steve McCutcheon said the application was seeking permission to use irradiation to destroy pests on tomatoes and capsicum to allow increased domestic and international trade.

“Irradiation is often used as an alternative to chemicals, particularly when previously permitted chemicals can no longer be used,” Mr McCutcheon said.

“FSANZ has reviewed the scientific evidence on the safety of irradiated tomatoes and capsicums and found they are safe to eat.

“During assessment, FSANZ also received advice from quarantine agencies in Australia and New Zealand that irradiation is a valid treatment for quarantine purposes on tomatoes and capsicums.”

The application was submitted by the Queensland Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation in association with the New Zealand Fresh Produce Importers Association.

The closing date for submissions is 7 November 2012.

3. Consultation paper on the regulation of infant formula products in the Food Standards Code.

FSANZ Chief Executive Officer Steve McCutcheon said products covered by the review included infant formula (for infants aged 0 to 12 months); follow-on formula (for infants aged from 6 to12 months); and infant formula products for special dietary use.

“FSANZ has committed to reviewing infant formula regulations and will undertake this work in 2013, but we first want to seek the views of stakeholders on the current regulatory arrangements,” Mr McCutcheon said.

“The consultation paper covers a range of issues including how the current standards operate; composition of products and labelling and advertising.

“The feedback we get as a result of this consultation will help inform the preparation of a formal proposal to review the relevant standards. There will be further opportunity to comment and provide feedback when a proposal is developed in 2013. ”

Submissions on the consultation paper close 7 November 2012

For more information please call the FSANZ media phone on 0401 714 265 or email media@foodstandards.gov.au