Current Code Applications
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is reviewing a number of applications and proposals to amend the Food Standards Code. It is now asking for public submissions on these. The following are just three of these from the latest notice of assessment from FSANZ;
derived from insect-protected and herbicide-tolerant (GM) cotton - Application A1028 - Assessment
FSANZ has received an application to permit the sale and use of food made with a genetically modified cotton line (T304-40). This material has insect protection from Lepidopteran larvae and glufosinate ammonium containing herbicide tolerance. FSANZ has found that there are no threats to human health from this type of cotton.
derived from drought-tolerant (GM) corn -Application A1029 - 1st Assessment
An application for approval to permit the sale and use of a “drought tolerant” genetically modified corn variety (MON 87460). This type of corn has reduced yield loss in poor water conditions.
“FSANZ must satisfy itself that food derived from GM sources is safe for human consumption before approval is given,” the food regulatory body advised. “We applied our usual safety assessment procedures to this drought-tolerant corn and concluded that food derived from it is safe to consume. We seek comment from interested parties,” FSANZ advised.
Primary production and processing requirements for raw milk products (Australia only) Proposal P1007 - 1st Assessment
To maintain a high level of dairy safety, the vast majority of dairy foods in Australia must be heat treated (pasteurised). Only a few cheeses in this country are permitted to be made with milk that has not been pasteurised. Some can also be imported but this is very tightly controlled.
“We are now assessing whether a greater range of raw milk products can be produced, under carefully managed control systems, without compromising public health and safety,” FSANZ advised.
Details of how to make a submission can be found on http://www.foodstandards.gov.au
The closing date for submissions is Wednesday 10 February 2010, except for P1007 (raw milk products), which closes on Wednesday 24 February 2010.