Food Ministers meet to review regulatory developments on infant formula, infant formula, toddler milk and food labeling

The food ministers of Australia and New Zealand held the Food Ministers Meeting on November 15 by videoconference to review various food regulation and policy issues.

The topics reviewed at the meeting:

• Regulation of infant formula products

The Ministers approved an amended policy guideline on the Regulation of Infant Formula Products. The amendment expands the definition of ‘infant formula product’ and ensures regulation of cell-based human milk products is consistent with ‘traditional’ infant formula products. The amended policy guideline does not trigger any regulatory change.

• Regulation of toddler milk

The Ministers recommended that Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) review the relevant provisions of the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code as it applies to the composition and labelling of toddler milk. This review will ensure standards are based on the latest evidence and reflects current international regulations and market development.

• Update on nutrition labelling

The Ministers recognise that the NIP is a trusted and valued nutrition label tool for consumers. The review will be undertaken in parallel with FSANZ’s preparatory work to inform ministers’ future decision-making on mandating the Health Star Rating (HSR) system. This provides a unique opportunity to improve nutrition labelling on the front (HSR) and back (NIP) of packaged foods to support consumers to make healthier food choices.

Ministers consider this a priority piece of work for FSANZ. FSANZ will keep Ministers informed of progress in a timely way.

• The health star rating system

The Ministers were provided with an update to governance processes for the HSR system.

The day to-day oversight of the system has moved towards a business-as-usual phase. A simplified and proportionate governance structure will support the ongoing work in exploring mandating the system.

• The FSANZ workplan

The Ministers noted the update on the FSANZ Workplan and agreed that the work on commercial foods for infants and young children should be prioritised by FRSC out‑of-session for the next Food Ministers’ Meeting.

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