Food Labelling Review - have your say!

The Australian and New Zealand Governments are undertaking a much needed review of our food labelling laws and policies. You can have your say by attending one of the public meetings they are holding or by putting in a submission before 14th May 2010.

Food labels provide important information to consumers about the foods they buy - place of manufacture, ingredients, nutritional profile, presence of allergens, preparation, storage, use by dates to name a few. They are also a vehicle whereby food manufacturers can inform consumers at point of sale of the features and benefits of their product. Much of what is permitted on a food label is set out in the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code ( www.foodstandards.gov.au ). Over the years, consumers have indicated that they have difficulty reading and understanding food labels and often question the credibility of the information  provided. At the same time, food manufacturers have become concerned about the cost of meeting the requirements of food labelling laws, the restrictions placed on them in highlighting certain  product benefits and the inconsistencies in enforcing the laws.

An Issues Consultation Paper:Food Labelling Law and Policy has been prepared by The Committee conducting the Independent Review of Food labelling Law and Policy. This paper, and further information about having your input can be accessed at www.foodlabellingreview.gov.au