The tree that can do everything

"They smell like a cross between asparagus and peanut butter!"

Despite being recognised as a safe and nutritious food source across the world for many years, Moringa (Moringa oleifera) remains classified as a non-traditional and novel food under the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code, which prevents the active development of moringa industry in Australia.

Two determined researchers are on a mission to change that, and bring the highly nutritious leaves, pods and seed oil of the tree into the Australian mainstream. Their research project, funded by an AgriFutures Australia Business Innovation Grant, clearly showed that M. oleifera is a safe and nutritious food source, suitable for human consumption.

In January 2024, a formal application to amend the Code was submitted to Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) in January 2024.  The outcome is anticipated by September 2024. 

Featuring:

• Stephen Newton, CEO, Noosa Organica
• Dr Henry Brockman, Senior Research Scientist, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) 

Further Resources:

• Final report: Amendment of the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code to permit the sale of Moringa oleifera as food
• Read the Australian Moringa Strategic RD&E Plan (2022-2027)
• Find out more about the AgriFutures Emerging Industries Program