Ingredient Labelling 

Guide to Standard 1.2.4 - Labelling of Ingredients

(Last updated September 2010)

Ingredient Labelling of Foods (pdf 132 kb)

This user guide explains when ingredient labelling is required and the way in which it must be presented. The guide sets out specific requirements for labelling and naming ingredients and compound ingredients.

All packaged food must include a statement or list of ingredients on the label except some exempt foods that are listed later in this guide (see Exempt foods).

What is an ingredient?

An ingredient means any substance, including a food additive, used in the preparation, manufacture or handling of a food. Essentially, anything that is used to make a food must be listed in the statement of ingredients. There are a few exceptions to this general rule, which are listed later in this guide (see Exempt ingredients).

Food standards advice

If you are a food business or an individual who manufactures, processes, caters or handles food and require assistance in understanding the requirements of the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code then consult one of our Standards Advisors using our Contact Form.