Food label fight: Australian plant-based industry lambasts ‘restrictive regulations’ proposal

The Senate Rural and Regional Affairs & Transport Committee in Australia has proposed recommendations for regulating the labelling of plant-based products, including a mandatory regulatory framework, review of product placement in supermarkets, and restrictions on the use of traditional meat labels for plant-based products. However, the Alternative Proteins Council and Food Frontier have opposed these recommendations, citing a lack of evidence and arguing that they could stifle innovation and consumer choice. The Red Meat Advisory Council, representing the traditional meat industry, has endorsed the recommendations, asserting that they are necessary to prevent consumer confusion and ensure fair competition. A study by the University of Sydney's Institute for Sustainable Futures has supported the council's stand, indicating that Australian consumers are not confused by plant-based product labels. Additionally, the committee has called for a regulatory framework for cultured meat, sparking debate and criticism over the need for such regulations at this stage.