Biotech Updates

FSANZ Calls for Comment on Horticulture Paper

June 3, 2011

A consultation paper on what approaches to take to ensure food safety in fresh horticultural produce has been released recently by the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ). This action is in response to the periodic microbiological or chemical hazards that can arise in food that can put risk to the consumer. 

"The horticulture industries in Australia have been quick to implement measures through audited industry schemes or other systems that address food safety. What we don't know is whether these measures are sufficient to provide a nationally consistent approach to food safety across the entire sector," said FSANZ Chief Executive Officer, Steve McCutcheon. 

To this end, FSANZ is now working with industry to evaluate the effectivity and adequateness of the national requirement; and with growers, packers, wholesalers and industry bodies as well as other non-industry stakeholders who will wish to contribute. A call for written submissions on the paper must be lodged with FSANZ by 6pm (Canberra time) on 11 July 2011.

See the news at  http://www.foodstandards.gov.au/scienceandeducation/newsroom/
mediareleases/mediareleases2011/fsanzcallsforcomment5181.cfm
. For the consultation paper, check http://www.foodstandards.gov.au/_srcfiles/Stakeholder%20Consultation%20Paper%20-%20REVISED%20version.pdf.