Todd Saunders, general manager of Sanitarium Australia said that the company welcomed the State and Federal Government’s introduction of the voluntary system.
“This is a major preventative health initiative which offers an opportunity for the food and beverage industry to significantly contribute to improving the health of our nation,” said Saunders.
“We know Australians trust Sanitarium products and by providing transparent and easy to understand information through the Health Star Rating system, we are continuing to deliver on the trust consumers place in us and our brands.”
Saunders said that in contrast to current labelling, the Health Star Rating system provides nutritional information in a clear and easily understood format.
“Currently, comparing nutrition values between products takes time and can be confusing. The Health Star Rating system is a practical way consumers can be equipped with the relevant information they need when making healthy choices for themselves and their family,” he said.
Greg Gambrill, food environment and science manager of Sanitarium Australia said that the consumers will benefit from the introduction of the system.
“It’s been great to see Governments recognising the need for improved health information when making purchasing decisions, and the leadership role taken by the Department of Health in developing this standardised rating system,” he said.
“With the front-of-pack labelling system guidelines nearing completion, it’s now up to us as manufacturers to put these Health Star Ratings into action on our packaging - and it will be the consumers who benefit.”
Health Star Ratings will be rolled out across Sanitarium’s portfolio within the coming months.