National QSR menu board labelling needed: Australian Food and Grocery Council

The Council says it's disappointed with some States and Territories that have moved ahead with separate legislations for QSR menu board labelling.

It’s disappointing some States and Territories have decided to move ahead with menu board labelling legislation for Quick Service Restaurants without waiting for a consistent, national approach, the Australian Food and Grocery Council said today.

AFGC’s QSR Forum – representing the majority of QSR companies in Australia – is preparing to roll-out menu board labelling nationally so restaurants can provide energy information to all Australians as well as a range of healthy choices with a focus on being part of the solution for a healthier Australia.

AFGC Chief Executive Kate Carnell said it was a concern that NSW, ACT and SA have introduced separate legislation where QSR outlets must place kilojoule content on their menu boards as well as prominently feature the average adult daily energy intake of 8700kj.

“It’s concerning that some jurisdictions have gone ahead with menu board labelling despite the Food Regulation Ministerial Council developing nationally consistent guidelines for point-of-sale labelling in QSR outlets, Ms Carnell said.

“Having a nationally-consistent approach will make it easier for consumers to understand menu board labels – and it provides cost benefits for industry.

“Governments are currently playing catch up on this initiative, with the QSR sector ready to roll-out menu board labelling nationally.”

Ms Carnell said it was pleasing the SA Government was consulting with interest groups on its legislation and industry will recommend menu-board labelling exemptions for the following products:

· Limited time offers where the product is on the market for less than 60 days

· Products on the market for the genuine and sole purpose of product trial and research, provided that the trial is limited to 90 days

· Products sold with the intention of multiple servings and/or portions (BBQ chickens, whole cakes etc).

“Industry will also be writing to the NSW Government requesting the same exemptions,” Ms Carnell said.

Photo from meganbreece

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