The OECD's Task Force for the Safety of Novel Foods and Feeds decided at its first session, in1999, to focus its work on the development of science-based consensus documents, which are mutually acceptable among member countries. These consensus documents contain information for use during the regulatory assessment of a particular food/feed product. In the area of food and feed safety, consensus documents are being published on the nutrients, anti-nutrients or toxicants, information of its use as a food/feed and other relevant information.This consensus document addresses compositional considerations for new varieties of maize by identifying the key food and feed nutrients, anti-nutrients and secondary plant metabolites. A general description of these components is provided. Also included are considerations to be taken when assessing new maize varieties, including suggested analyses.The Netherlands and the United States served as the lead countries in the preparation of thisdocument.The Joint Meeting of the Chemicals Committee and the Working Party on Chemicals, Pesticides and Biotechnology has recommended that this document be made available to the public. It is published on the authority of the Secretary-General of the OECD.