Australia New Zealand Food Standards Authority Seeks Public Input on GMO Additives in Everyday Foods, Only 45 Days Left!

On 6 September 2024, Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) issued a notice No. 305-24. The notice details the specifics of the application A1301. The primary purpose of this application is to seek public comments and suggestions regarding the use of a specific Triacylglycerol lipase as a processing aid. The lipase is produced by Pichia pastoris, a genetically modified yeast, and its main applications are in the production and processing of bread and bakery products. To ensure there is sufficient time for the public to give feedback, Food Standards Australia has set a deadline for comments at 6pm (Canberra time) on 18 October 2024.

Then, on 9 September 2024, Food Standards Australia and New Zealand again issued a circular No. 306-24 containing two important applications. The first is Application A1310, which seeks approval for the use of a specific genetically modified soybean strain, MON94637, as a food ingredient. It is understood that this transgenic soybean strain has significant advantages, which can effectively prevent the invasion of lepidoptera pests, thereby improving the yield and quality of crops.

The second application issued on the same day, A1312, requested approval of a new organism of genetically modified origin, 2 '-fucosyl lactose (2' -FL) produced by genetically modified Escherichia coli BL21, for use in infant formula products. 2 '-fucosyllactose is an important prebiotic ingredient that promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the baby's gut, thereby contributing to the healthy growth of the baby. This application was made to provide more nutritional options for infant formula products to meet the needs of different consumers.

Through these applications and the public consultation, Food Standards Australia hopes to further improve food regulations to ensure the safety and nutritional value of food, while also providing more opportunities for innovation in the food production and processing industry.