The move, which was implemented by the Australian Government, aims to make Australian products easier to identify instead of the old labels.
The country-of-origin labels will include an ‘Australian Made’ kangaroo logo, which is a bar chart indicating the percentage of Australian ingredients and a statement as to where the product is made.
Despite changes being made to labelling, the ‘PorkMark’ label, which addresses 100% Australian pork in a product, will continue to be used.
Australian Pork Limited’s marketing manager Peter Haydon said the pork industry had been crying out for changes to its labelling laws.
“While all fresh pork is proudly Australian, imported pork is being used in ham, bacon and some pre-cooked pork products,” said Haydon. “We’re pleased the Government has changed the labels and hope they will help consumers identify Australian products more easily.”
However, Haydon stressed that there needed to be more consumer education on how to read the new labels, as the kangaroo aspect of the labelling could cause confusion.
“The kangaroo logo will appear on packaging of products that have only been made in Australia. That’s a problem for the Australian pork industry, because it means ham and bacon made here from imported pork will still have that logo and consumers just glancing at a package will be none the wiser,” Haydon added.
Australian Pork Limited has encouraged consumers to actively look for the new labels and check out the bar chart and words, rather than just look for the kangaroo.