Industry Information
As a community we are all dependent on the food industry not just for its contribution to our nutrition but also our well being and the employment it creates within our communities. It extends from primary production to the production of high value added nutritional supplements. The responsibility for food safety exists along the entire complex chain from paddock to plate. While Governments cannot guarantee absolutely the safety of all food, it is their role to develop a regulatory framework that promotes the delivery of safe and healthy food by the food industry and the provision of adequate information to consumers.
The Australian Food Regulation Model
An effective regulatory system together with a reputation for safe food are vital ingredients to the competitiveness and survival of the food industry. The Australian food industry is a major export earner and driver of the economy. Prior to 2000 there was a pressing need for reforms, particularly the establishment of a nationally coordinated system.
Very significant changes have occurred over the last decade in food regulation in Australia. The reforms followed the 1998 Food Regulation Review (Blair) Report.
The reforms were implemented between 2000 and 2002 and have resulted in a more whole-of-food chain and nationally focused regulatory system. The new system is based on strengthening the partnership between government, consumers and Industry with increased Ministerial direction on policy.
The model comprises:
- The Australian and New Zealand Regulation Ministerial Council, which comprises of Ministers from all States and Territories as well as Australian and New Zealand Governments.
- A Food Regulation Standing Committee (FRSC), which includes Local Government and Food Standards Australia New Zealand as observers.
- An Implementation Sub-Committee (ISC)
- Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) - a statutory authority responsible for developing all domestic food standards, consistent with Ministerial policy.
Food standards apply to ALL foods produced or imported for sale in Australia and New Zealand and cover the whole supply chain - from paddock to plate. Standards specifically cover:
- Composition
- Labelling
- Contaminants, including microbiological limits
State and Local governments are responsible for implementation and enforcement of food standards, while the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) are responsible for the compliance and standards of imported foods.
Further Information