Food regulation in Australia is evolving, especially when it comes to genetically modified (GM) foods. A recent proposal by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is aiming to modernise how we define GM foods and how these products are approved and labelled.
This shift could affect not only food producers and retailers but also consumers who rely on accurate labelling to make informed decisions.
Here’s what you need to know about the changes and what they mean for the Australian food industry.
Currently, GM foods are defined based on the process used to create them. If a food product has been made using gene technology, it falls under the GM category. But with advancements in science, many experts believe this process-based definition is outdated.
FSANZ is now moving towards a product-based definition. Instead of focusing on how the food was made, the new definition considers whether the food contains – DNA that does not occur naturally or cannot be produced through traditional breeding methods.
Under this change, some foods created through gene-editing techniques (such as CRISPR) may no longer be classified as GM, as long as they don’t contain novel DNA. These foods would not require GM labelling or a pre-market safety assessment, although all food businesses would still be required to meet the broader requirements of the Food Standards Code.
To better understand how these changes apply in practice, we can look at one of the latest GM products being reviewed – the purple tomato. This tomato has been genetically modified to produce anthocyanins, the same antioxidants found in blueberries and other colourful fruits.
The tomato’s unique colour comes from two genes taken from the snapdragon flower (Antirrhinum majus). These genes allow the tomato to produce pigments throughout its flesh and skin – not just in the outer layer like many traditional varieties.
According to FSANZ, this tomato poses no safety concerns. However, before it can be sold in Australia and New Zealand, FSANZ is asking for public input. People can submit their feedback until 10 September 2025.
It’s important to note that this approval only relates to food use. Growing the tomato in Australia or importing seeds would require separate approvals through other government agencies.
The proposed change in the GM food definition has received mixed reactions. Many in the food production and science sectors support the update. They say it reflects current science and removes unnecessary red tape for food businesses using precise gene-editing methods that don’t involve novel DNA.
However, some organic farming groups and consumer advocates have voiced concerns. They worry that removing gene-edited foods from the GM category could confuse shoppers or reduce transparency. Without GM labelling, consumers may not know how their food was made – even if the food has been modified at the genetic level.
FSANZ has stated that food labelling will still be required when novel DNA is present, and safety will remain the top priority in all decisions.
At the Australian Institute of Food Safety (AIFS), we believe all Australians have the right to safe, clearly labelled food. As food standards evolve, it’s essential that food businesses stay informed about what’s changing and how to remain compliant.
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