On 9 February 2017, the Victorian Parliament passed the Food Amendment (Kilojoule Labelling Scheme and Other Matters) Act 2016. It will require large chain food outlets and large chain supermarkets to display kilojoule content on their menu items.
Increasing evidence is linking kilojoule labelling to a decrease in kilojoules purchased or consumed. This new scheme will help Victorians make more informed decisions about their food choices when eating out.
The kilojoule labelling scheme in Victoria will require large chain food outlets and large chain supermarkets to display:
- the average kilojoule content of standardised, unpackaged ready-to-eat food and non-alcoholic drinks on menus, menu boards, food labels and price tags.
- the statement that ‘The average adult daily energy intake is 8 700 kJ’ on menus, menu boards and on each display cabinet, stand or area.
The scheme will come into effect in early 2018. Advice is available from the Department of Health and Human Services to assist chain food businesses and supermarkets to implement the changes.
For information updates please see the Department of Health and Human Services’ Food Safety website
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