FSANZ calls for produce irradiation submissions

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has called for submissions on an application to permit the irradiation of tomatoes and capsicums.

FSANZ Chief Executive Officer Steve McCutcheon said the application was seeking permission to use irradiation to destroy pests on tomatoes and capsicum to allow increased domestic and international trade.

“Irradiation is often used as an alternative to chemicals, particularly when previously permitted chemicals can no longer be used,” McCutcheon said.

“FSANZ has reviewed the scientific evidence on the safety of irradiated tomatoes and capsicums and found they are safe to eat.

“During assessment, we also received advice from quarantine agencies in Australia and New Zealand that irradiation is a valid treatment for quarantine purposes on tomatoes and capsicums.”

The application was submitted by the Queensland Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation in association with the New Zealand Fresh Produce Importers Association.

The closing date for submissions is November 7, 2012.