In Australia, the registration and regulatory requirements for food products depend on various factors, including the type of food, its ingredients, and how it is processed and sold. Here’s an overview of what food products typically need registration or approval in Australia:
Foods that do not have a history of safe use as food in Australia and New Zealand.
Must undergo a pre-market safety assessment and approval by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ).
Foods making health claims (e.g., "reduces cholesterol") or nutrient content claims (e.g., "low in fat").
Must comply with Standard 1.2.7 – Nutrition, Health and Related Claims of the Australia New Zealand Food Standards
Code. The product may need pre-approval depending on the type of claim.
Foods containing live microorganisms intended to confer a health benefit or foods with added substances like inulin.
Must be assessed for safety and comply with FSANZ standards. If claims are made, additional substantiation may be required.
Infant formula, follow-on formula, baby cereals, and purees.
Subject to strict regulations under Standard 2.9.1 – Infant Formula Products of the Food Standards Code. These
products need to meet specific compositional and labeling requirements.
Products containing GM soy, corn, or canola, for example.
Must be approved by FSANZ before they can be sold. GM foods must be labeled as such, unless they fall under specific exemptions.
Products positioned as offering therapeutic benefits.
These may fall under the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) rather than FSANZ, requiring registration
or listing on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG).
Artificial sweeteners, preservatives, or new enzymes used in food production, for example.
Any new additive or processing aid not previously approved requires an application to FSANZ.
Beer, wine, spirits, and ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages, for example.
Must comply with specific standards, including composition, labeling, and health warnings. Businesses need licensing from local state
or territory authorities to manufacture or sell alcohol.
Energy drinks, fortified cereals, and fortified beverages, for example.
Foods fortified with vitamins and minerals must comply with Standard 2.9.4 – Formulated Supplementary Foods.
Dairy products, seafood, meat, and certain packaged foods, for example.
Importers must register with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and comply with the Imported
Food Control Act 1992.
High-risk foods may need inspection and clearance upon entry.
Bakeries, cafes, restaurants, and catering businesses, for example.
All food businesses must register with their local council and comply with the Food Act 2006 in their respective state or territory. This includes obtaining a food business license for food preparation, handling, and sales.
Gluten-free foods, low-FODMAP products, and lactose-free milk, for example.
Foods for special medical purposes or specific dietary needs must comply with Standard 2.9.5 – Food for Special Medical Purposes.