Regulator seeks opinions on alternative DHA source for infant formula

The antipodean food regulator has called for opinions on an alternative source of DHA for use in infant formula products. 

Fsanz chief executive Steve McCutcheon said DSM Nutritional Products had applied for approval for an alternative docosahexaenoic acid oil derived from Schizochytrium sp. (DHA-B) to be added to infant formulas. 

This would be done at levels consistent with other DHA oils already approved in the Food Standards Code, according to DSM’s petition.

“Several DHA oils, which are omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, are already permitted as an optional ingredient in infant formula products,” McCutcheon said. 

The composition of oil derived from Schizochytrium sp. is comparable to other approved novel sources of DHA.

A risk assessment by Fsanz found no health or safety concerns at the levels proposed, he added. 

All such decisions are notified to ministers responsible for food regulation, who can decide to ask for a review or agree that the standard should become law.

A deadline for submissions has been set for December 13.