How is the public kept aware of the approval process for GM foods?
Answer FSANZ has a transparent and consultative regulatory framework for developing food standards in Australia and New Zealand. For all matters relating to a change in the Food Standards Code, comments are sought from all stakeholders on two separate occasions during the assessment process. These public consultation periods are mandatory for all food standards matters including applications for GM foods. This system allows stakeholders to raise relevant issues that are then specifically addressed in assessment reports. As part of the open and transparent system operating at FSANZ, all information and data relating to a GM food is accessible via a public register file. An exception to this occurs only when certain information is given confidential business information status by FSANZ.
