A genetically-modified banana developed to resist Panama disease is on the cusp of receiving commercial approval. This initiative, led by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT), has already secured approval from Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) to permit its consumption. The modified banana, known as QCAV-4, represents a significant milestone as it is the first whole genetically-modified fruit to gain FSANZ's approval and the first of its kind globally.
With the approval process advancing, food ministers in Australia and New Zealand are faced with a mid-April deadline to either endorse the proposal or call for a review. Failing a request for review, the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code will be updated to allow the sale and utilization of this genetically-modified banana. This development comes in response to the threat posed by Panama disease, a fungal infection causing severe damage to banana crops worldwide.
Although there are no immediate plans to commercialize the genetically-modified banana in Australia—owing to the current containment and management of Panama disease—the fruit, if cultivated, is expected to be marketed primarily as fresh produce, in addition to its potential use in processed food items. It is mandated that such genetically-modified products be appropriately labeled, except in cases where they are served in restaurants or takeaway outlets, where labeling is not compulsory but information must be made available upon request.
Source: 9news.com.au