In 2020, Australia's Health Star Ratings system was amended following a five-year review, which aimed at making it easier for customers to interpret Health Star Ratings (HSR) and pick healthier packaged goods. Manufacturers were given 2 years to implement the changes which recently concluded on 14 November.
The Health Star Rating (HSR) is a front-of-pack labelling system that assigns a rating from 1/2 to 5 stars to the overall nutrition profile of packaged foods. It allows consumers to compare similar packaged foods quickly and easily. Basically, the more stars there are, the better the option.
A reminder was issued to the food industry by Authorities, including the NSW Health Authority who outlined some of the key changes, including:
While it's voluntary for manufacturers to adopt the HSR, those who do are legally required to comply with the new amendments. However, for products with a shelf life of 12 months or more, a stock-in-trade provision of a further 12 months has been authorised.
Manufacturers who have an HSR on your packaging must ensure they have:
For more information, visit healthstarrating.gov.au, or for information on how to categorise and calculate an HSR, access the Health Star Rating System Calculator and Style Guide.