Australians are being invited to have their say on Health Star Ratings as Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) opens its first formal call for submissions.
The consultation comes after Food Ministers agreed to progress work towards mandating Health Star Ratings on packaged foods across Australia and New Zealand.
Under proposed changes, most packaged foods sold in shops will need to carry a rating, giving consumers clear, easy to understand nutritional information at a glance, helping them to make healthier choices for themselves and their families.
Mandatory Health Star Rating labelling would enhance consumer choice and create a level playing field for food producers, providing clarity and consistency across the market.
The Health Star Rating system is currently voluntary, with only 39 per cent of foods in Australia and 36 per cent in New Zealand displaying a rating.
Seven in 10 consumers use the rating system at least sometimes when shopping, and most agree it makes it easier to identify healthier products.
Consumers, health groups, industry, government and other interested stakeholders are invited to provide feedback to FSANZ up until 21 June, with information on its website.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister White:
“The Albanese Government is committed to making it easier for people to choose healthier food for themselves and their families.
“Right now, not every product carries a Health Star Rating, which can make it harder for people to make informed choices when they’re standing in the supermarket aisle.
“Putting simple, clear information on the front of packaging, will ensure all shoppers can quickly and easily make healthier choices for themselves and their family.”