Proposal P257 - Preparation Of Cassava
INITIAL ASSESSMENT REPORT
21 August 2002
INTRODUCTION
This Proposal has been prepared in order to consider the potential health risks associated with consumption of raw or improperly prepared cassava, and, if necessary, whether appropriate risk management measures are in place. This Proposal has been raised by FSANZ under section 12AA of the Food Standards Australia New Zealand Act 1991.
The safety of cassava as a food was raised initially during the development of the Novel Foods Standard (Standard 1.5.1) as an example of a possible non-traditional food for which there is insufficient knowledge in the broad community to enable safe use. Following consultation with the Senior Food Officers from New Zealand and from each of the States and Territories of Australia, it was agreed that, given the history of use of cassava, it could not be considered a non-traditional food or a novel food. However, it was agreed that FSANZ (then ANZFA) should consider the need for additional consumer information regarding the safe preparation and use of cassava.