Australian consumers should now see clearer and more meaningful information about the products they buy thanks to an agreement by the states and territories to reform country of origin food labeling.
The agreement comes after decades of frustration on the part of consumers that country of origin information for food is misleading and confusing.
“This is an issue that has vexed governments on both sides for many years and today is a major breakthrough Australians have long been waiting for,” Minister for Industry, Innovation and Science, Mr Christopher Pyne said.
“The new food labelling system will provide Australian consumers with the clarity they deserve, without imposing an overly onerous burden on businesses.”
Many foods found on Australian retail shelves will be required to include a kangaroo in a triangle logo to indicate the food is made, produced or grown in Australia.
The new system will also include a bar chart indicating the proportion of Australian ingredients.
The reforms will be introduced from 1 July with labels expected to appear in retail outlets later this year.
With the introduction of the reforms, the enhanced country of origin labelling requirements will move from the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code to Australian Consumer Law.
Minister for Rural Health Fiona Nash, who also chairs the Australia and New Zealand Ministerial Forum on Food Regulation, confirmed that work has commenced to revoke the country of origin labelling provisions under the Food Standards Code.
“Whether you’re in Geraldton, Gippsland, Gympie or Gundagai, shoppers want to know they’re buying Australian. This change gives farmers a fair go and gives shoppers the chance to support local jobs and growth.”
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