FoodLegal

On 20 March 2020, FSANZ announced a new process for future reviews of Australian Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) in the context of harmonisation with international MRLs such as those established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. This article raises concerns about the potential effects of this proposal within the context of MRL regulations in Australia. One of the lessons from COVID-19 is that international bodies might be influenced where there are a range of international pressures. Public health must take priority over free trade if the two are to be equated.

A World Trade Organisation dispute between Australia and the EU over the definition of “prosecco” has highlighted the value of Geographical Indicators in influencing world trade. This article explores the questions surrounding how and when a food description can become a Geographical Indicator that is subject to international protection. We address the prosecco scenario as a case study and consider several other illustrations on approaching food descriptions that might be associated with a geographic region.

In March 2020, the Australian Department of Agriculture announced a second public consultation on the Draft Export Control (Meat and Meat Products) Rules 2020. This article explores the stakeholder feedback arising from the first round of public consultation (in November 2018) and some of the key changes made by the Department of Agriculture in response to the earlier feedback received.