Proposal P1055 - Definitions for gene technology and new breeding techniques

P1055 is a proposal to amend the definitions in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Code) for ‘food produced using gene technology’ and ‘gene technology’ to:

• make it clear which foods are genetically modified (GM) foods for Code purposes
• accommodate new technologies
• regulate foods according to the risk they pose.

We released a first public call for submissions in 2021. The feedback from that first consultation was that our initial approach to amending the definitions was unclear and too complex. Following further assessment, we have simplified the approach and are now proposing a new definition for 'genetically modified food'.

• The second public call for submissions: P1055 - Definition for gene technology and new breeding techniques closed 10 September 2024.

You can read our assessment and find out more about the proposed variation to the Code in the second call for submission documents. We will continue to update our website with further information as this work progresses.

Second call for submissions – 30 July 2024

• Second call for submissions - 30 July 2024 (PDF 1.2 MB)
• Supporting document 1 - Updated compilation of regulatory approaches (PDF 304 KB)
• Supporting document 2 - Cost benefit considerations (PDF 335.6 KB)

Why we are doing this work

A new Code definition for GM food is necessary to ensure regulation keeps pace with new and emerging techniques for genetic modification. These techniques are collectively referred to as new breeding techniques (NBTs).  

Proposal P1055 commenced in early 2020, following the completion of FSANZ's Review of food derived using new breeding techniques.

For more information, see our factsheets and videos on GM foods and NBTs.

• Read the P1055 Administrative Assessment Report - 20 February 2020 (PDF 220 kb).

P1055 webinar presentation