Application seeks to reduce L-histidine in infant formula

Submissions are being sought on Application A1074 - Minimum L-histidine in Infant Formula Products, which involves a proposed change to infant formula requirements in the Food Standards Code. Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is considering an application to reduce the minimum required level of L-histidine in infant formula products from 12 mg/100 kJ to 10 mg/100 kJ.

“The reduced minimum level is comparable to the average L-histidine content of breast milk and is considered adequate to support the growth of formula-fed infants,” said Steve McCutcheon, CEO of FSANZ.

“The proposed change would provide consistency with international and overseas food standards, and reduce trade barriers,” McCutcheon said. “FSANZ has not identified any public health and safety concerns with this proposed change.”

Submissions will close on 20 December 2012. For information on making a submission, click here.

Information courtesy of Food Standards Australia New Zealand.