Traffic Light Food Labels Set to Go in Australia

After a major inquiry into food labelling in Australia, the Traffic Light Food label system that is used voluntarily in Britain, is expected are expected to be recommended by the federal government despite strong opposition from the food industry.

Intense lobbying by the industry has previously blocked similar introduction in the UK (mandatory), EU and the US.

The traffic light system, unlike the existing food labels provide a simple 'the good the bad and the ugly' guide for consumers by giving a poor rating to 'bad' food that should be only eaten occasionally.

The simple ratings apply to the levels of sugar, fat and salt on the front of the food packages.

The Traffic Lights System, with colour codes giving green, amber, or red ratings for foods, has been strongly supported for many years by health and consumer groups in Australia, including Choice Magazine, the Public Health Association, Royal Australasian College of Physicians and the Australian Medical Association, all of which recommended the system.

The extensive inquiry into food labelling conducted in Australia, recommended that a system that provided tighter, better resourced monitoring of food labels be introduced.

The Independent Panel commissioned for the Review of Food Labels recommended the introduction of front-of-pack, multiple traffic lights (MTL) labelling system on food packages.

The panel recommended that the labels be voluntary initially, but mandatory where the products claimed to have health benefits.

The Panel also recommended that the various food chain outlets in New Zealand and Australia display the labels on menus and menu display boards (excluding beverages containing alcohol).

But the Australian food industry has severely criticised the traffic lights system as potentially misleading and overly-simplistic.

It cites the examples of some healthy products such as full cream milk getting a red light for fat content and sultanas getting a red light for sugar content.

The food industry representatives claim that the traffic lights labels are not simple for consumers to use and are misleading and don't provide adequate information.

The food industry claimed that the 'Daily Intake Guide' (see image) offered an easy to follow alternative with more comprehensive information.

Which is Easier to Follow in Making Healthy Food Choices?

Compare the images below

For other articles on Food Labels see:

Do Food Labels Inform, Educate, Deceive or Mislead - Traffic Lights Off or ON

Food Labels - New Guide Using a Fuel Gauge for Daily Calorie Allowances

Food Industry Babel Blocks Food Labels Needed to Fight Obesity

Traffic Light Food Labels Set to Go in Australia

Q&A: Generic Brands, Home Brand and Private Label Food Products

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