Published
FSANZ and Health Canada have implemented a collaborative arrangement for the pre-market assessment of genetically modified (GM) foods.
The Shared Assessment Process (SAP) allows food developers to submit an application for joint assessment. One agency leads the scientific assessment, while the other reviews the results independently, with each agency making its own decision.
By removing duplication, the process cuts down approval times while upholding each country’s high safety standards.
The SAP has been piloted on several GM food applications and is expected to offer greater consistency and potential cost and time savings in assessments.
To help businesses navigate the new pathway, FSANZ and Health Canada have released joint guidance covering every step of the process - from preparing a submission to final approval. The guidance outlines key expectations, indicative timelines and procedural details, providing clarity for applicants.
The new process builds on more than a decade of collaboration between FSANZ and Health Canada and reflects a strong shared commitment to streamlining regulation while maintaining world-class safety standards.