FSANZ approves updated GM food definitions

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has given the stamp of approval to updated definitions for genetically modified (GM) food in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Code).

The updated definitions are intended to address advances in gene technologies while maintaining strong food safety protections. This follows an extensive review under Proposal P1055 – Definitions for gene technology and new breeding techniques.

FSANZ CEO Dr Sandra Cuthbert said the new definitions reflect the latest science and will provide greater clarity for industry, regulators and consumers.

“The updated definitions are outcome-based, focusing on the change that has been made rather than the process used to make the change,” Cuthbert said.

“Our safety assessment confirms that many modifications achieved through new breeding techniques are equivalent to those from conventional breeding, which is widely recognised as safe.”

Designed to remove ambiguity and improve clarity and predictability while continuing to protect public health and safety, the new definitions will apply across the Code. This should support consistent GM food assessment and labelling, while ensuring regulatory oversight remains proportionate to risk.

FSANZ’s action on GM food brings Australia and New Zealand closer to regulatory approaches being adopted internationally, including in economies like Canada, Japan and England. In giving its approval to the new definitions, FSANZ is aiming to ensure the Code remains current and supports international trade, innovation and consistent regulation across markets.

Existing requirements for pre-market safety assessment and labelling of GM foods will continue to apply, meaning consumers have access to safe food and clear information.

Australian and New Zealand food ministers have 60 days (as of 18 June 2025) to consider FSANZ’s decision and to give their approval.

Image credit: iStock.com/Dmitry Belyaev