Rapeseed Protein Isolate Baseline Survey

Overview

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) approved the sale of rapeseed protein isolate as a novel food in December 2020, however it has not yet entered the food supply. Rapeseed protein isolate can be used as a replacement for animal and plant proteins (eg. whey, soy, pea). It may be used in a range of foods including bakery products, beverages (fruit juice, soft drinks, formulated beverages, energy drinks), dairy products, ready to eat meals, soup, pasta, extruded snacks including cookies, meat analogues, and protein based products.

Details of the application to permit rapeseed protein isolate can be found here.

The plant species used to produce rapeseed protein isolate are part of the mustard (Brassicaceae) family including Brassica juncea (brown mustard) and therefore may be a risk to mustard-allergic individuals.

FSANZ is collecting data on the prevalence of mustard allergy in Australia and New Zealand before and after the introduction of rapeseed protein isolate into the food supply. FSANZ is requesting ASCIA members complete a short survey to provide data on the number of cases of mustard allergy in their patient populations at baseline (this survey) and when rapeseed protein isolate is in the food supply to see if it has affected the prevalence of mustard allergy. All information will be bound by FSANZ's privacy and confidentiality agreement (below).

Why your views matter

ASCIA members can provide important information regarding any potential changes in mustard allergy prevalence following the introduction of rapeseed protein isolate into the food supply. FSANZ will use the information you provide to inform policy development.