Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is calling for comment on an application to amend the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Code) to extend the use of rosemary extract as a food additive.
FSANZ CEO Dr Sandra Cuthbert said rosemary extract is already permitted in the Code for use as a food additive in certain foods up to specified maximum permitted levels (MPLs).
“The use of the antioxidant properties of rosemary extract in food is well documented in the scientific literature," Dr Cuthbert said.
“Based on the safety and dietary exposure assessments conducted by FSANZ, there is no evidence of a public health and safety concern associated with extending the use of rosemary extract as a food additive."
The application is seeking to extend the use of rosemary extract as a food additive in colourings and flavourings, edible oils, cooked or instant noodles, breadcrumbs, tortillas (corn or wheat), sausages, and fermented uncooked processed meat products.
For more information about the application and to access assessment documents, visit the FSANZ call for comment page. Submissions close 6pm (AEDT time) 15 December 2023.
What happens to my feedback?
Submissions will be published to our website as soon as possible after the end of the public comment period.
FSANZ will consider all feedback received through this submission process before deciding on whether to approve the application.
FSANZ's decision will be notified to ministers responsible for food regulation who can ask for a review or agree that the standard should become law.
More information:
· Read the call for submissions and assessment documents: A1254 Rosemary extract as a food additive - extension of use
Media contact:
· 0401 714 265 (Australia)
· +61 401 714 265 (from New Zealand)