December 21, 2007

High lysine corn now available in New Zealand

The New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZSFA) has approved imports and selling of high lysine corn although it would need to adhere to GM labelling requirements.

NZFSA Director Carole Inkster said the agency has worked through this issue and approvals for this type of variety are within the scope of the Food Treaty.

High lysine corn has been approved safe by every country for high-value animal feed and it has been approved for use as a human food in the United States, Japan, Canada, Australia and the Philippines.

However, the growing of high lysine corn is not allowed in New Zealand as this would require assessment and approval by the New Zealand Risk Management Authority (ERMA) and further public consultation.