Ensuring Health & Safety

Are GM crops and pesticides tested? Are they safe?

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On average, the plant science industry spends more than 11 years and $286 million U.S. to research, develop and ensure the safety of a new pesticide before it is commercialised.

In Australia, the production and use of pesticides is highly regulated to assure safety for users, consumers and the environment.

In Australia, the production and use of pesticides is highly regulated to assure safety for users, consumers and the environment – they are as highly regulated as pharmaceuticals. Our regulatory system is world-leading in the protection it offers. Find out what Australia’s independent agricultural chemical regulator (the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority) has to say about chemicals and food safety.

The plant science industry spends up to 10 years and $150 million U.S. to develop and ensure the safety of a new plant biotech product before bringing it to market.

The Australian Government’s Gene Technology Regulator identifies and manages risks to human health and the environment for any GM crop that is grown in Australia for trial or commercial purposes. The food safety regulator Food Standards Australia New Zealand undertakes a pre-market safety assessment of all GM food ingredients whether they are produced domestically or imported into Australia. In conjunction with other regulatory agencies where required, this regulation system manages the risks of all GM crops grown or consumed in Australia.

Find out more about the world-leading regulatory systems protecting Australian farmers, consumers and the environment.