FSANZ call for comment on additive to preserve beverages

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is calling for comment on an application to allow a new type of additive, sourced from a type of mushroom called ‘sweet osmanthus ear’, under the Food Standards Code. If approved, the additive would be used to preserve non-alcoholic drinks.

FSANZ CEO Mark Booth said the organisation had carried out a safety assessment and found the additive safe for use based on the proposed maximum permitted levels the application calls for.

“Extracts from the mushroom (known as jelly mushroom glycolipids) are used to protect food from common yeasts, moulds and bacteria that may grow over time. To help people make informed choices about their food, mandatory labelling requirements apply and this food additive will need to be declared on the ingredients list,” Booth said.

To have your say, visit the FSANZ call for comment page. Submissions will close at 6 pm (AEST) on 17 September 2020.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Andrii