Public health experts have congratulated Food Ministers on their decision to support regulating the composition, labelling and texture of baby and toddler foods in Australia.
The decision comes after years of advocacy from public health groups and experts, and a recent report from the Food for Health Alliance which exposed the misleading marketing tactics baby and toddler food companies use to promote these foods as healthy.
Executive Manager of the Food for Health Alliance, Jane Martin says that in making this decision Food Ministers have shown strong leadership and commitment to prioritising the health and wellbeing of our youngest Australians.
“I applaud Food Ministers for taking action to ensure higher standards are set for packaged baby and toddler foods. We know that industry won’t make these changes on their own, so action from government is crucial to ensure the health and development of young children,” Ms. Martin said.
“This decision is an important step towards bringing Australia and New Zealand in line with international best practice and sets us on the path to be global leaders in the regulation of how baby and toddler foods are made and marketed,” she added.
Dr. Anthea Rhodes, a Paediatrician at the Royal Children's Hospital, has also backed the decision, noting the positive impact this will have for children.
“The first three years of a child’s life are essential for their development, so it’s crucial that foods specifically for them support their health, particularly as we know packaged baby and toddler foods account for a significant amount of young children’s diets in Australia,” she said.
The changes supported by Food Ministers give the standard setter, Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), the green light to progress regulations covering a wide range of issues including:
- What's in these foods, including sugar and sodium
- How they are named
- What marketing can feature on the packaging.
As the regulations are developed and implemented, Food for Heath Alliance will continue to engage with policymakers and FSANZ to advocate for the highest standards to be set, so that regulations reflect World Health Organization guidelines.
- ENDS -
