The Australian Dairy Industry Council (ADIC) welcomes today’s announcement by the Legislative and Governance Forum on Food Regulation that the nutrient profiling on the front of packaging of dairy products will be examined more closely over the coming months.
Under the voluntary labelling system, there will be a star rating out of five on the front of food packaging that is based upon the levels of individual nutrients such as saturated fats, rather than looking at foods as a whole.
ADIC Chairman Noel Campbell said the dairy industry was concerned that without further investigation, the star system could have meant that products such as milk and cheese, which are recommended under Australian Dietary Guidelines, could be seen by consumers as an unhealthy option.
“The Australian Dietary Guidelines acknowledge that adequate intakes of milk, yoghurt and cheese are linked to a reduced risk of several chronic diseases including heart disease and stroke. This evidence relates to all varieties of milk, cheese and yoghurt including regular, reduced-fat and flavoured varieties.”
“By breaking foods into separate nutrient components, some dairy products may have received fewer stars which would have led to consumer confusion about whether or not they should eat dairy as part of a well balanced diet.”
“The dairy industry welcomes the continued examination of the system and its impact upon this core food group. It is essential that this new labelling system clearly aligns with Australian Dietary Guidelines so consumers can make positive food choices that are based on recommended daily intakes.”
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