Australia Launches Inquiry into Misleading Food Labeling After TV Investigation

Australia's consumer watchdog, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), has launched an inquiry into allegations of misleading food labeling and packaging. This action follows a significant investigation by the television program Four Corners, which uncovered products bearing labels that did not align with independent scientific testing.

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It is important that consumers can be confident that any claims made on food labelling, packaging and in advertisements are truthful, accurate and not misleading.

The eight-month investigation by Four Corners examined thousands of food import records, national recalls, and international food fraud intelligence. Forensic testing by Source Certain revealed that numerous tomato paste products advertised as Australian or Italian were, in fact, consistent with tomatoes grown in China. Notably, about half of the products that failed testing originated from Xinjiang, a region known for its use of forced labor.

Further testing identified seafood, including white fish and prawns, promoted as Australian to the food service sector, but consistent with sourcing from Vietnam. The investigation also found discrepancies in egg labeling, with some "cage-free" eggs not meeting their claims. Additionally, three brands of turmeric showed signs of adulteration, containing substances like lead chromate and iron oxide.

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Australians shouldn't be duped by misleading labels.

Assistant Competition Minister Andrew Leigh welcomed the ACCC's inquiry, stating that "Australians shouldn't be duped by misleading labels." He emphasized that consumers should be able to trust the accuracy of information on food packaging and in advertisements. ACCC Commissioner Luke Woodward added that the watchdog is committed to enforcing consumer laws to protect Australians, acknowledging that consumers often rely on non-price factors like country of origin when making purchasing decisions.

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Australians should be able to walk into a store and know that what it says on the tin is accurate.