The Health Star Rating scheme is driving positive reformulation of current foods and the innovation of new ones, says FGC.
The NZ Herald asked FGC if there had been any discussions with the new Health Minister, and if FGC members would be receptive to his wish to work with the industry to improve labelling and setting sugar reduction targets. Also, are current labelling requirements enough and will companies be able and willing to reduce the sugar in their products?
Katherine Rich responded:
The Food and Grocery Council is keen to engage with the Government on all food and grocery issues, as we have said previously.
We believe that the current labelling requirements we share with Australia are well established and that the Health Star Rating is driving positive reformulation of current foods and the innovation of new ones.
We would be delighted to look at any further detail around what the Government may propose in the future. Our member companies have been reformulating foods and beverages for many years to remove sugar, salt, and fat, in line with consumer preferences, and they will continue to do this.
I’ve congratulated the Minister of Health, David Clark, and the Minister for Food Safety, Damien O’Connor, on their appointments but we’ve not had a meeting. I hope to do so in the new year.