Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is calling for comment on an application to allow a permitted enzyme processing aid to be produced from a new genetically modified (GM) microbial source.
FSANZ CEO Dr Sandra Cuthbert said the enzyme pullulanase is already approved to be sourced from other microorganisms and has a long history of safe use.
"The applicant is seeking approval to produce the enzyme from a strain of bacterium known as Bacillus subtilis," Dr Cuthbert said.
"Our safety assessment found no health and safety concerns for Australian and New Zealand consumers."
If approved, the enzyme could be used as a processing aid for the production of glucose syrups and other starch hydrolysates, in accordance with the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.
