FSANZ Calls for Comments On Infant Formula Proposal
23 Feb 2016 --- Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is seeking comments on its proposed approach to revising infant formula requirements in the Food Standards Code. FSANZ Chief Executive Officer Steve McCutcheon said although breastfeeding is the recommended way to feed a baby, a safe and nutritious substitute for breast milk is needed for babies who are not breastfed:
“This paper covers a range of issues including composition, safety and food technology and labelling. We welcome comments from all members of the community, government agencies, public health professionals and industry.”
After assessing submissions on this consultation paper, FSANZ expects to prepare a call for submissions for public release.
There will be additional opportunities to provide comments as the proposal progresses.
What they are looking at
Some key areas FSANZ are seeking feedback on are:
• whether compositional changes should be made to align with the Codex requirements for essential nutrients.
• whether changes are required for labelling on how to prepare, use and store infant formula.
• whether infant formula labels should include information about compositional changes in ingredients and an explanation for the change.
• approaches to regulation of new substances in infant formula.
What is not changing
While this paper is not a formal call for submissions, there are some key requirements in the current standard which FSANZ don’t think will change, including:
• The ‘breast is best’ statement: Breast milk is best for babies. Before you decide to use this product, consult your doctor or health worker for advice.
• The current prohibition on making nutrition and health claims on infant formula products.
FSANZ anticipate that the categories of follow-on formula and infant formula products for special dietary use will be considered in later projects.
Toddler milks (designed for children 1–3 years) will not be reviewed in these projects.
The closing date for submissions is 17 May 2016.
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