Genetically modified organisms and foods, news for business

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are products of genetic engineering. GMOs have had parts of their genetic material (DNA) altered in a way that does not occur naturally by mating and/or natural recombination. GMOs can be used to produce consumer goods such as foods, food processing agents and medicines. Foods produced from GMOs will often contain novel DNA and/or protein. Some food refining techniques have the effect of removing these. When foods do not contain them there is no requirement to state this. However, manufacturers, suppliers and retailers should be aware that it may be possible to comply with the standard for food produced using gene technology, but breach the Trade Practices Act. This is particularly so for those who wish to make voluntary claims about the GM status of their product.

This publication is currently under review