Australia’s food standards agency has welcomed the ACCC initiating inquiries into claims raised on the recent ABC Four Corners program Duped.
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) sets food standards for both countries which are enforced by national, state and territory food regulators.
The ACCC enforces the Australian Consumer Law, alongside state and territory consumer protection regulators, including specific laws regarding country of origin labelling for food.
The ACCC stated on Friday it was looking into Four Corners’ food claims.
When making the announcement, the ACCC emphasised the importance of consumer confidence in the truth and accuracy of food labelling, including claims about country of origin and supply chains.
The food standards FSANZ develops are designed to ensure the safety and suitability of food produced and sold in both countries. This includes requiring nutrition and ingredient information on packaged foods to support consumers to make dietary choices that suit their needs.
Quotes attributable to FSANZ CEO, Dr Sandra Cuthbert
“Consumers rightly expect food sold in Australia to meet our strong standards.
“Ensuring people can trust the food they purchase and consume is so important for all those involved in the food regulation system.
“It is good to see the issues and alleged industry practices raised by Four Corners are being taken seriously by regulators.
“Australia is recognised both domestically and internationally for the quality, safety and integrity of its food supply and exports.
“Consumer confidence in the claims made by food producers and manufacturers is vital to maintaining that trust here and abroad.
“Our food regulation system has a long history of protecting public health by ensuring our food supply is safe and responding quickly and effectively to food issues and risks.
“FSANZ will continue to work with regulators, industry and consumer representatives to support a safe, trusted and transparent food system.
The ACCC’s statement can be found on its website: ACCC looking into Four Corners' food claims