The Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has assessed application A1260, which seeks approval for the use of 2-methyloxolane (2-MeOx) as a processing aid for extraction purposes.

Raw milk consumption is legal and common in many countries, but the risks associated with it, particularly outbreaks and contamination incidents involving enteric pathogens (Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., Listeria monocytogenes), continue to be a concern. In Idaho, USA, 18 people who consumed raw milk reported symptoms of campylobacteriosis, all testing positive for Campylobacter spp. In New Zealand, a brand of raw milk was recalled due to contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, followed by a recall of raw cream contaminated with Campylobacter spp. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published an intriguing review of outbreaks related to raw milk consumption over the past 20 years.

Norway has published new dietary guidelines recommending a reduction in the consumption of red and processed meats and prioritizing plant-based foods. The guidelines limit weekly red meat consumption to 350 grams and advise including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in meals. They also recommend increased consumption of low-fat dairy products, plant-based alternatives, and legumes.

As the popularity of plant-based foods increases, various hazards associated with these products, such as allergens and microbial pathogens, have emerged. In Canada, a listeriosis outbreak linked to plant-based milk from two brands resulted in 18 cases and two deaths. Plant-based foods can provide conducive conditions for microbiological contamination; therefore, risks should be considered during the product development process through analyses like HACCP.

In Chile, a new legislative bill has been introduced to ensure fair competition between the traditional food industry and plant-based food producers. Drafted by Congressman Harry Jürgensen, the bill aims to protect consumer rights and prevent misleading food labeling. It proposes the mandatory use of the term “Simulated Food” for plant-based products and requires clear labeling of these products.

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of Mpox as a “public health emergency of international concern” highlights the ongoing risk posed by infectious microbial pathogens. The Mpox virus primarily spreads through close contact with an infected person, contaminated materials, or through contact or consumption of infected animals. Transmission modes vary between different clades of the virus. For example, Clade Ia is typically spread through bushmeat consumption, while Clade Ib and Clade II spread person-to-person. Although the natural reservoir of the Mpox virus remains unknown, small mammals and rodents in West and Central Africa are thought to be potential carriers.

Argentina has approved the use of hydrolyzed collagen as a component in food supplements. The Secretariat of Health Quality and the Secretariat of Bioeconomy issued Joint Decision 2/2024, amending Article 1417 of the Food Code to authorize hydrolyzed collagen as an ingredient in food and food supplements.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) recently released the first of four tutorial videos to accompany the nutrition panel calculator. This is a highly useful tool and video to support the creation of nutrition labels for prepackaged foods in compliance with the Australia and New Zealand Food Standards Code, making it significant for those operating in these markets.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning about multistate salmonella outbreaks linked to small turtles. This incident has led to 51 cases, including 23 hospitalizations across 21 states. While salmonella is typically associated with contact rather than consumption, this highlights the fact that reptiles can carry Salmonella species. The CDC emphasizes the importance of practicing good personal hygiene when handling turtles.

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Regional Organization for Standards and Quality has published the draft voluntary standard FCRS 5:202x, titled “Food Labeling – Prepackaged Foods – Specification (Revision).