Mark Halvey, Marketing Advisor, Bord Bia- Irish Food Board

The pressure to overhaul the country of origin labelling started back in February 2015. Imported ‘frozen berries’ came under the Australian spotlight in dangerous Hepatitis A findings. This became an opportune moment to investigate how labelling could be improved, both to protect the safety of the consumer and also the indigenous food industry.

These inquiries led to significant changes to the definition of “Australian Made” with the voluntary introduction of bar charts on pack to break down the proportion of Australian ingredients.

As far as imported goods are concerned, global businesses that supply products into Australia can continue to rely on a generic claim of “made from local and imported ingredients”, in order to satisfy country of origin requirements in both Australia and in foreign jurisdictions. However, that claim must be set out in a box on the label, meaning that some businesses may need to develop new, Australia-specific packaging.

Other changes to take affect from March 1st 2016

Abolition of the 50% rule: At present, a product can be described as “made in Australia” even where it has been imported, so long as this results in a “substantial transformation” and more than 50% of the costs of producing that item are incurred in Australia. This is set to change and further clarification to the term ‘Australian Made’ is due as a replacement caveat.

Packed in Australia: Products imported into Australia and re-packed locally will now need to identify the origin of the product, for example, "Packed in Australia, made in Canada." The ACCC will be enforcing these new policies and manufacturers must be aware of potential fines. Until January 29th there is a consultation period where all questions can be answered.

For more information contact mark.halvey@ucdconnect.ie