A summary of regulatory developments in food law in Australia and internationally for the month of September 2021.

Varieties of adaptogens are becoming increasingly popular for either stress reduction or energy boosting functions in foods. The regulation of these substances is complex. This article explores some of the regulatory and legal risks and considerations that apply to adding adaptogens to food sold in Australia and to marketing the associated health benefits.

On 21 May 2021, Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) commenced an in-depth review of the way that infant formula products are regulated in Australia and New Zealand. As the first stage of this review, FSANZ has developed a series of consultation papers for consideration by industry and other stakeholders. This article addresses some key issues raised in the consultation papers, the scope and next steps of the review.

The natural human desire for sweetness is reflected by consumption patterns. The main source of dietary sweetness, sugar, is usually portrayed as the “demon” by nutritionists and food regulators who are rightly concerned about rising obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Yet, going back to basics of unrefined sugar in its natural form, with new scientific findings and technical innovation to use a non-refined, non-centrifuged, low Glycaemic Index (GI) sugar may change the health equation significantly. Food regulatory agencies throughout the world including Australia, need to review current policies and reassess the policy settings for this type of new sugar product.