Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is calling for comment on an application to allow the addition of bovine lactoferrin to infant formula products.
FSANZ CEO Dr Sandra Cuthbert said lactoferrin is a naturally occurring protein which supports the development of an infant's immune system and is found in human milk.
“A similar protein, bovine lactoferrin, is found in cows' milk and is permitted to be added to infant formula products in other countries,” Dr Cuthbert said.
“Currently, bovine lactoferrin is not permitted for use as a nutritive substance in infant formula products in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.
“FSANZ's assessment found no health or safety concerns with the addition of bovine lactoferrin to infant formula products at the level requested.
“If approved, bovine lactoferrin will be allowed to be voluntarily added to infant formula products at a maximum level of 40 mg/100 kJ, similar to overseas regulations.”
The call for comment period closes at¯6pm (Canberra time) 10 November 2022.
What happens to my feedback?
We will publish all submissions to our website as soon as possible at the end of the public comment period.
All feedback will be considered by FSANZ before a decision is made on whether to approve the application/proposal.
Our decision will be notified to ministers responsible for food regulation who can ask for a review or agree to include the amendment in the Food Standards Code.
Media contact:
- 0401 714 265 (Australia)
- +61 401 714 265 (from New Zealand)
- media@foodstandards.gov.au