AUSVEG calls Country of Origin Labelling for fast food

AUSVEG, an industry representative for Australia’s vegetable and potato growers, has welcomed the commitment by McDonald’s to display the country of origin of the ingredients in their products. AUSVEG is calling on other fast food outlets to follow suit, so Australian consumers can know where their food comes from.

Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud made the announcement following requests for fast food outlets to adopt the country of origin labelling system, which became mandatory on all food products sold in retail stores from 1 July 2018. However, certain food products are exempt, such as food sold for immediate consumption at fast food outlets and cafes. AUSVEG CEO James Whiteside said decision by McDonald’s to adopt Country of Origin Labelling was a show of faith to the hard work and dedication of Australia’s farmers in providing high-quality food to consumers.

AUSVEG advocates for clearer Country of Origin Labelling and is urging the fast food industry, and other industries that are exempt from mandatory labelling, to adopt the labelling, to enable consumers to make more informed purchasing decisions.

“While the labelling system provides consumers with more information about where a lot of their food comes from, it is an inconsistent, two-tiered approach that is problematic for consumers and needs the fast food industry to get on board and commit to display the country of origin on their food products,” Whiteside said.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Goran