Currently, strict regulations and labeling requirements for genetically modified (GM) foods have become an essential compliance step for food export companies to enter the international market. In this article, Global Foodmate introduces the regulatory framework and labeling requirements for GM foods in Australia and New Zealand to assist food export companies.

I. Regulatory framework for GM Foods in Australia and New Zealand

The regulation of GM foods in Australia and New Zealand is primarily the responsibility of their respective national food safety regulatory agencies. In Australia, food safety is mainly the responsibility of Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) and state and territory governments. In New Zealand, it is in charge of by the New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZFSA) under the Ministry of Primary Industries. Both countries regulate GM foods based on the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code and related laws and regulations.

The Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code Standard 1.5.2 is the main standard for GM foods. The standard defines genetic technology, GM foods, and specifies the GM foods allowed for sale. It also regulates the labeling requirements for GM food ingredients or products. The standard stipulates that only GM foods that have been assessed and approved can enter the food supply chain. Approved GM foods are listed in Schedule 26 of the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code, including canola, corn, cotton, alfalfa, potatoes, rice, soybeans, sugar beets, safflower, wheat, and bananas, totaling 11 types.

II. Labeling Requirements for GM Foods in Australia and New Zealand

The Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code Standard 1.5.2-4 stipulates the labeling requirements for GM foods. Additionally, Schedule 26 of the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (hereinafter referred to as S 26) lists the categories of GM foods allowed and their related labeling requirements.

2.1 Labeling Targets

(1) Mandatory Labeling

The Code Standard 1.5.2-4 stipulates that foods composed of or containing GM food ingredients must be labeled with "genetically modified" (abbreviated as "GM"). The Code S 26-3 lists the GM foods allowed and their related labeling requirements, as detailed in the table below.

(2) Exemptions from Labeling

The following situations are exempt from labeling "genetically modified":

(a) Highly refined and the novel DNA and novel proteins have been removed through the refining process; except for 1(g), 2(m), 6(b) (containing beta-carotene), 7(e), 7(g), 7(h), 9(a), foods allowed in S26-3 can be unlabeled as "genetically modified."

(b) Used as a processing aid or food additive in food, and there is no residue of the GM food's new DNA and new proteins in the food.

(c) Used as a flavoring in food and the content in the food does not exceed 1 g/kg.

(d) Unintentionally present in food and the content in the food does not exceed 10 g/kg.

(e) Food for immediate consumption and prepared and sold in food service establishments and vending machines, including restaurants, takeaway shops, catering services, or self-service dining facilities.

2.2 Labeling Methods

(1) In terms of labeling terms, information related to foods produced using genetic technology includes the "genetically modified" declaration and the name of the GM food. This declaration is located next to the food name (e.g., "genetically modified soybeans").

(2) If the GM food is an ingredient used as a food additive or processing aid in the food, it can be declared in the ingredient list. Example: Soy Protein Isolate (genetically modified).

(3) "GM free" and "non-GM" declarations are made voluntarily by food manufacturers and are subject to the relevant fair trading laws of Australia and New Zealand. These laws prohibit false, misleading, or deceptive statements about food, or statements that may be false, misleading, or deceptive.

III. Conclusion

Australia and New Zealand have established a systematic and strict regulatory system for GM foods. only GM foods that have been assessed and approved can enter the food supply chain. However, not all approved GM organisms will enter the market as food. Many approved GM crops for food are grown as animal feed, and some approved GM plants do not enter the market for various reasons. Therefore, Chinese food export companies should first understand the latest regulations and import requirements for GM foods in Australia and New Zealand before exporting GM foods there. They should consider their products and the actual situation in Australia and New Zealand comprehensively to ensure compliance with food exports. Foodmate has extensive experience in the export field and can provide you with professional export compliance solutions. If need any support, please contact us via global_info@foodmate.net.