Launching a Food Product? Here's What You Must Know About Australian Labelling.
Launching a new food product is exciting but compliance can be tricky. Between recipe testing, packaging design, and marketing strategy, ensuring your label meets legal standards often slips through the cracks. That’s where NutriLabel Solutions shines. We make sure your label is fully compliant with the FSANZ Food Standards Code, avoiding costly regulatory slip-ups.
What’s the FSANZ Food Standards Code?
The Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code is the legal backbone of food labelling in both Australia and New Zealand. It’s enforced at the state/territory level and outlines what must be on every food label—including grab-and-go products.
Here are the key labelling elements required under FSANZ Chapter 1, Part 1.2, tailored for food brands:
1. Product Name/Description (Standard 1.2.2)
You must list the true name of the product—or a clear description if no prescribed name exists. It ensures your customer can identify what they’re buying.
2. Ingredient List (Standard 1.2.4)
All ingredients must appear in descending order by weight. Complex ingredients (like sauces or spice blends) must also be broken down unless exempt. This transparency is both a legal requirement and good ethics.
3. Allergen Declarations (Standard 1.2.3)
All common allergens—like milk, wheat, soy, tree nuts, eggs, and others—must be clearly listed (often in bold). This requirement was updated in February 2024 to help people find allergen info more easily.
4. Nutrition Information Panel (NIP) (Standard 1.2.8)
The NIP must show:
Energy (kJ)
Protein
Total fat and saturated fat
Carbohydrates and sugars
Sodium
These values must be in both per 100 g and per serving formats, helping consumers make informed dietary decisions
5. Date Marking (Standard 1.2.5)
Food must display either a “Best Before” date (for quality, shelf-life) or a “Use By” date (for safety). Accurate dating is vital—not just for compliance, but to maintain consumer trust.
6. Storage Instructions (Standard 1.2.6)
If your product needs to be kept cool, frozen, or away from light, the label must state it—for example, "Keep refrigerated below 4°C.” This helps maintain quality and safety.
7. Supplier Name & Address (Standard 1.2.2)
Your label must include the name and street address of the manufacturer, packer, or importer. A PO Box alone isn't enough—this offers accountability and transparency.
8. Net Weight or Volume
Consumers expect to know how much they’re buying. Whether grams, millilitres, or both, ensure this is clearly displayed on your product.
9. Country of Origin (Standard 1.2.11)
Australia requires clear origin statements—like "Made in Australia from at least 95% Australian ingredients." This isn’t just legal; it’s a powerful marketing tool that resonates with consumer values.
10. Nutrition & Health Claims (Standard 1.2.7)
Want to include claims like “High in Fibre” or “Low Sugar”? They must comply with FSANZ guidelines. That means they need substantiation and the correct wording to avoid misleading consumers.
Why These Label Elements Matter
Legal compliance avoids costly fines or forced recalls.
Trust-building transparency—customers want clarity around ingredients and allergens.
Marketing edge—telling them where the product is from, what’s in it, and what’s good about it helps your brand stand out.
Efficiency—having a compliant label from the start speeds up product approvals and market entry.
Need Help? That’s Our Job
At NutriLabel Solutions, we do more than just check boxes-we craft labels that communicate, protect, and convert. From ingredient breakdown to NIP generation, origin compliance, and claim verification, we guide you every step of the way.
Let’s make compliance feel effortless, so you can focus on what you do best—creating delicious food.
Interested in a label review or compliance boost? Contact us now—we’d love to help.