Australia mandates health star ratings on nearly all packaged foods

Australia will soon require health star ratings on nearly all packaged foods. The move follows years of voluntary labelling, which saw only 39% of products display the system. Public support and health advocacy have pushed the government to act on clearer nutritional information. The Health Star Rating (HSR) system has been optional since its launch in 2014. Despite an initial target of 70% compliance by November 2025, only 39% of foods currently show the labels. Over 82% of Australians now want the ratings on all packaged items to help them make faster, healthier choices.

Peak health groups have long supported mandatory HSR, pointing to its success overseas. More than 50 countries use the system, with 19 enforcing it as law. The World Health Organisation also recognises HSR as a cost-effective way to tackle diet-related diseases. Federal Assistant Health Minister Rebecca White has backed the change, calling it a step toward better access to nutritional details. The Australian Medical Association (AMA) insists the system must be government-led and free from industry influence. However, special products like baby formula and alcohol will remain exempt. Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) will now draft a proposal to make HSR compulsory wherever a nutrition panel is already required.

The new rule will apply to most packaged foods, excluding only a few categories. With broad public and expert backing, the shift aims to simplify healthy choices for shoppers. The government expects the change to bring more consistency and transparency to food labelling.