June 22, 2015
Gippslanders have until July 3 to have their say on country of origin food labelling through a community survey released by the Federal Government.
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said a simple and clear system for food labelling is in the best interests of consumers.
“Consumers are interested not only in where a product is made, but also where the ingredients come from,” Mr Chester said.
“I’ve been contacted by many local residents who want the government to improve the system and remove confusion when they shop for everyday items.”
Mr Chester said the community survey offered Gippslanders a chance to provide feedback on what information should be included in country of origin food labelling and what format the label should take.
“It is important that any graphics are easy to understand and the font or picture needs to be in a size which can be easily read,” Mr Chester said.
“The community survey is quick and easy to complete and covers the various options which the Ministerial Taskforce is considering.”
To take part in the survey on country of origin food labelling visit:
http://www.industry.gov.au/cool
Mr Chester said the government had also engaged with business and industry groups to consider how the scheme is applied, phased in and implemented.
“The proposed labels will need to be simple and clear for consumers- but the government is also mindful of the effect any changes will have on food manufacturers,” he said.
“We are a net exporting country, so we need to make sure that any regulations which are introduced are in line with our current trade agreements.”
Caption: Improved labelling of Australian-made produce was among the range of topics discussed when the Agriculture Minister Barnaby Joyce visited Gippsland last year. Minister Joyce is pictured with Denison farmer Graeme Anderson at the primary producers forum hosted in Maffra by Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester.
