Statement – media coverage on food labelling
24 Nov 2006
Various media outlets today carried reports on a study of mandatory nutrition information labelling, by the Food Authority last year.
An article on the study – a pilot research project, was recently published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Subsequently, the Food Authority has requested Sydney University to review the outcomes of the study.
It is intended that the research carried out by the Food Authority will inform the wider national process on nutritional labelling being led by Food Standards Australian New Zealand (FSANZ). Any possible changes to nutritional information can only occur through this national process. FSANZ have indicated that they will review all aspects of labelling next year.
Importantly, there is nothing to indicate that food manufacturers are misleading consumers. The pilot research carried out by the Food Authority does however suggest that there are inherent differences in nutritional testing methodologies and food processing procedures. This research will provide the necessary robustness to help determine regulatory enforcement activities.
The Food Authority will continue to carry out research to get to the bottom of the issue, so that NSW consumers can continue to make safe and healthy food choices.
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