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.
