Understanding FSANZ Food Standards

An introduction to Australia's food regulatory framework.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) develops and maintains the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code, helping to provide a consistent regulatory framework for food sold in Australia and New Zealand.

For food manufacturers, understanding the role of FSANZ is an important part of developing safe, compliant food products. The Food Standards Code covers a wide range of requirements, including food safety, ingredient labelling, allergen declarations, food additives and compositional standards.

While individual businesses remain responsible for ensuring compliance, understanding how the Code applies to products and ingredients can assist manufacturers in making informed decisions throughout product development and production.

What is FSANZ?

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is the government agency responsible for developing and reviewing food standards for Australia and New Zealand.

Its responsibilities include:

  • Developing and maintaining the Food Standards Code.
  • Conducting scientific risk assessments.
  • Reviewing food additives and novel foods.
  • Establishing food labelling requirements.
  • Supporting food safety through evidence-based standards.

Why Are the Food Standards Important?

The Food Standards Code provides the regulatory framework that food manufacturers must work within when developing products for the Australian market.

Depending on the product, manufacturers may need to consider requirements relating to:

  • Ingredient composition
  • Food labelling
  • Mandatory allergen declarations
  • Nutrition information
  • Food additives
  • Processing aids
  • Gluten-free and other food claims

Understanding these requirements early in product development can help reduce delays and support regulatory compliance.


FSANZ and Gluten-Free Foods

For manufacturers producing gluten-free products, the Food Standards Code establishes the legal requirements for making gluten-free claims in Australia.

Understanding these requirements is only one part of producing compliant gluten-free products. Manufacturers also rely on robust supplier documentation, quality systems and verification processes to support ingredient assessment.

👉 Read our guide to Gluten-Free Claims & Verification.

FSANZ and Food Safety Systems

While FSANZ develops the Food Standards Code, businesses are responsible for implementing appropriate food safety systems and manufacturing controls.

Depending on the nature of the business, this may include:

  • HACCP-based food safety systems
  • Supplier approval programs
  • Product specifications
  • Traceability procedures
  • Allergen management programs

These systems work together to support compliance with food regulations while helping manufacturers manage food safety risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does FSANZ stand for?

Food Standards Australia New Zealand.

Does FSANZ inspect food manufacturers?

No. FSANZ develops food standards, while food businesses remain responsible for complying with the Food Standards Code. Enforcement is generally carried out by state and territory food regulators.

Does FSANZ regulate gluten-free claims?

Yes. The Food Standards Code sets the legal requirements for foods labelled gluten free in Australia.

Where can I read the Food Standards Code?

The current Food Standards Code is available on the official FSANZ website.

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Need Assistance?

Selecting ingredients for gluten-free manufacturing often involves understanding supplier documentation, regulatory requirements and quality systems.

If you're sourcing verified gluten-free ingredients or require supporting technical documentation, our team is happy to assist.