Food ministers met last week to discuss an array of topics including the uptake and potential of mandating the Health Star Rating system.
In May 2024, ministers expressed their disappointment in the uptake of the Health Star Rating (HSR) system.
The results were significantly off-track to reach the final target of 70 percent of intended products apply an HSR by 14 November 2025.
Last week ministers agreed to FSANZ working with FRSC to commence preparatory work to inform ministers’ future decision-making on mandating the HSR system.
This work will facilitate an efficient process to mandate the system if the final results do not reach the target.
This work will not include a full review of the HSR system or algorithm.
This will include consideration of specific issues such as the impact on cost of living and inconsistencies in some product categories.
This work will be undertaken in parallel with the scoping of a holistic review of the Nutrition Information Panel (NIP).
Coordination of the work on both the front (HSR) and back (NIP) of packaged foods presents an opportunity to improve all aspects of nutrition labelling including information about added sugars.
This will support consumers to feel informed and empowered in making choices about food.
The food ministers will meet again in November 2024.