Call for comment on a new enzyme processing aid from a GM source 

Published

Date: 10/10/2023

​​Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is calling for comment on an application to allow a new enzyme processing aid from a genetically-modified (GM) microbial source.

FSANZ CEO Dr Sandra Cuthbert said if permitted, the enzyme beta-fructofuranosidase would be used as a processing aid in the production of short-chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) and to reduce sugar (sucrose) levels in treated fruit and vegetable products.

“The enzyme is sourced from a genetically modified (GM) strain of Trichoderma reesei containing the beta-fructofuranosidase gene from Aspergillus niger," Dr Cuthbert said.

“T. reesei has a long history of safe use as a production microorganism of enzyme processing aids, including several that are already permitted in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code."

FSANZ has conducted a safety assessment which found no health and safety concerns for Australian and New Zealand consumers.

For more information about the application and assessment documents, visit the public consultation page.  Submissions close 6pm (AEST time) 21 November 2023.

What happens to my feedback?

Submissions will be published to our website as soon as possible after the end of the public comment period.

FSANZ will consider all feedback received through this submission process before deciding on whether to approve the application.

FSANZ's decision will be notified to ministers responsible for food regulation who can ask for a review or agree that the standard should become law. 

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