Australia mandates health star ratings on nearly all packaged foods

Australia will soon require health ratings on nearly all packaged foods. The Health Star Rating (HSR) system, once optional, will become mandatory for most products. This change aims to help shoppers make quicker, healthier choices at the supermarket. The HSR system assigns ratings from half a star to five stars, with more stars indicating better nutritional value. Currently, only 39% of foods in Australia display these ratings voluntarily. Under the new rules, FSANZ will propose placing HSR labels wherever a nutrition panel is already required.

Over 82% of Australians support making the system universal. Seven in ten consumers already use HSR when grocery shopping. The World Health Organisation has also backed the approach, calling it a cost-effective way to tackle diet-related illnesses. The mandate will not apply to special products like baby formula or alcohol. However, it will bring Australia in line with over 50 countries—19 of which already enforce similar labelling. Officials say the move will improve access to nutritional details and provide clearer rules for businesses and regulators.

The compulsory HSR system will cover most packaged foods sold in Australia. Shoppers will see consistent health ratings on shelves, making it easier to compare products. The change follows strong public demand and aligns with global efforts to improve dietary choices.