Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is assessing an application submitted by Bega Cheese Limited seeking amendments to the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code to permit the use of Phytostanols, phytosterols and their esters as a novel food ingredient in yoghurt, cheese and processed cheese products.
The proposal would amend Standard 2.5.3 – Fermented Milk Products, Standard 2.5.4 – Cheese, and Schedule 25 – Permitted Novel Foods. The application aims to expand consumer access to plant sterols through commonly consumed dairy foods, supporting dietary approaches to cholesterol reduction and cardiovascular health.
According to the application, plant sterols are well established for their cholesterol-lowering effects, with a daily intake of 2–3 g associated with reductions in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol of approximately 10%. The efficacy of plant sterols is already recognized within the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code through existing permitted high-level health claims relating to cholesterol reduction.
Bega Cheese states that permitting phytosterols, phytosterols and their esters in additional dairy categories would provide consumers with greater flexibility in achieving effective daily intake levels through a wider range of food products. The proposed amendments are intended to support public health objectives by facilitating access to foods that may contribute to improved cardiovascular health outcomes.
FSANZ will evaluate the safety, technological justification, nutritional impact, and proposed conditions of use as part of its assessment process before determining whether amendments to the Code are warranted.