FSANZ updates the definitions for genetically modified food
Australia
Jun 24, 2025
The Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has approved updated definitions for genetically modified (GM) food in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Code).
Following an extensive review under Proposal P1055 – Definitions for gene technology and new breeding techniques, the GM definitions have been modernised to address advances in gene technologies and maintain strong food safety protections.
FSANZ CEO Dr Sandra Cuthbert said the new definitions reflect the latest science and will provide greater clarity for industry, regulators and consumers.
The new definitions are designed to remove ambiguity and improve clarity and predictability while continuing to protect public health and safety. These definitions will apply across the Code, supporting consistent GM food assessment and labelling and ensuring regulatory oversight remains proportionate to risk.
- New definitions: The outdated, process-based definition for ‘food produced using gene technology’ is being replaced with an outcome-based definition for ‘genetically modified food’. This will make it easier to determine what is a GM food.
- Novel DNA: The new definition is based on the introduction of ‘novel DNA’ in an organism or cells. Genetic changes that occur naturally or from conventional breeding will not be captured as GM.
- New Breeding Techniques: Foods made using new breeding techniques, like genome editing, won’t be classified as GM food if the genetic change doesn’t introduce novel DNA.
For further information (in English), click on the Link
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