Current definitions on foods derived from new breeding techniques (NBTs) lack clarity and are no longer fit for purpose, a Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) report said.
FSANZ released its Final Report: Review of food derived using new breeding techniques this week.
NBTs are approaches in plant and animal breeding that were not in use when the standard was first developed almost 20 years ago.
Consultation began in early 2018 and while there were diverse views, most agreed the current standards were no longer suitable, FSANZ CEO Mark Booth said.
The report made three recommendations:
- FSANZ prepare a proposal to revise and modernise the definitions in the Code to make them clearer and better able to accommodate existing and emerging genetic technologies.
- As part of the proposal, FSANZ give consideration to process and non-process based definitions and the need to ensure that NBT foods are regulated in a manner that is commensurate with the risk they pose.
- Throughout the proposal process FSANZ will ensure there is open communication and active engagement with all interested parties and also explore ways to raise awareness about GM and NBT foods.
Booth said FSANZ would work on a proposal to amend the code’s definitions to make it clear which foods should be captured for pre-market approval and better address new and emerging technologies early in the new year.
“The community and interested stakeholders will be consulted and have the opportunity to have their say on the draft proposal,” he said.
“The Proposal will look at options to strengthen current regulations and make it clearer which foods should be subject to pre-market safety assessment by FSANZ.”
