Australia has introduced new country of origin food labelling to provide more clarity for consumers about the source of the food they buy.
Consumers will now be able to look to the kangaroo symbol for clear information on if the food was made, grown, produced or packed in Australia, or in another country, with the new labelling requirements for food now mandatory.
All businesses – including manufacturers, processors and importers that offer food for retail sale in Australia – will need to comply with the labelling rules, which specifies how claims can be made about the origin of food products.
The new requirements will apply to most food offered for retail sale in Australia, including food sold in stores or markets, online or from a vending machine. It does, however, exclude food sold in restaurants, cafes, takeaway shops or schools.
Food labelling reforms commenced in July 2016 after consultation with Australian consumers and businesses. The Australian government said that consumers made it known that they wanted clearer and more meaningful food labelling.
Businesses were given two years to transition to the new arrangements. The transition period ended on 1 July.
Mick Keogh, deputy chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), said: “We have people on the ground to carry out these inspections and will initially focus on fresh or short shelf products sold by supermarkets, both large and small. We will raise concerns with businesses where we believe there is an issue with country of origin labelling. As always, we are able to escalate cases which warrant stronger action.
“Some consumers are willing to pay extra for products grown, produced or made in Australia, and producers and importers should be aware that any claim which is likely to mislead consumers will also be a breach of the law. We just want to ensure that consumers can make informed choices and businesses have a level playing field to compete fairly in relation to these claims.”
Australian Senator Zed Seselja said: “The new labels provide consumers with accurate information and real choice. Australians will now find it easier to choose products that match their preferences during their weekly shop.
“Australian farmers and producers will see the benefits with consumers able to identify and choose to buy Australian products.”
The ACCC will conduct market surveillance checks on 10,000 food products to ensure businesses are correctly displaying the new labels.
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