The regulation of herbs, plants and spices used in foods

Despite the recent Federal Court of Australia action by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission against fake herbs and spices, there are other irregular regulatory compliance issues that can arise under the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code standard governing herbs and spices. Herbs, Spices and several other plant materials, e.g. edible flowers and leaves are added to foods for a variety of reasons. These substances may be used for adding flavour, aroma, or for colour and visual appearance and also sometimes for some perceived health benefit. This article reviews the food standard for using such substances in processed and packaged foods.