THE Gene Technology Regulator has issued a licence to Nuseed Pty Ltd authorising the commercial release of canola genetically modified for omega-3 oil content (known as DHA canola).

The release is authorised to take place throughout Australia.

The GM canola and products derived from the GM canola may enter general commerce, including use in human food and animal feed.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand has approved the use in food of material derived from this GM canola.

(Note that cultivation of GM canola is subject to restrictions in some Australian States and Territories for marketing reasons.)

The Regulator’s decision to issue the licence was made after consultation on the RARMP with the public, State and Territory governments, Australian Government agencies, the Minister for the Environment, the Gene Technology Technical Advisory Committee and local councils, as required by the Gene Technology Act 2000 and the corresponding State and Territory legislation.

The Regulator considered all submissions provided during the consultation process that related to the health and safety of people or the protection of the environment. The comments were considered in the context of current scientific information and used in finalising the RARMP. The finalised RARMP informed the Regulator’s decision to issue the licence.

The finalised RARMP concludes that this commercial release poses negligible risks to people and the environment and does not require specific risk treatment measures. However, general licence conditions have been imposed to ensure ongoing oversight of the release.

Source: Office of the Gene Technology Regulator