- Published:
- Thursday 4 May 2017
The Andrews Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to require all major Victorian food outlets and supermarket chains to display kilojoule contents on their menus.
Next year’s May deadline is fast approaching, so we’re working with the major retailers to help them meet their obligations and display appropriate labelling that ensures Victorians can make informed healthy choices.
The Food (Kilojoule Labelling Scheme and Other Matters) Amendment Bill 2016 will require the big chain food outlets and large supermarkets to display the kilojoule content of items on the menu. It’s all about giving families the information they need to follow a balanced, healthy diet.
Many retailers have made the necessary changes and met their obligations, but we’re working with hundreds more to meet the new requirement.
The Government is offering a free kilojoule measuring service for the first 12 months of the scheme, as well as workshops and an easy-to-follow guide for businesses and staff.
Data shows about two thirds of Victorian adults and a quarter of kids are overweight or obese – and those rates are rising. Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and cancer, costing the state $14.4 billion each year.
The Victorian-first labelling scheme will apply to large food chains with 20 or more outlets in Victoria, or those with 50 outlets nationally and at least one in the State – accounting for around 3,000 outlets. Some 570 individual supermarkets will also be required to comply.
The new law won’t apply to smaller outlets, such as mobile food businesses, smaller delivery services, food catering businesses or not-for-profit services such as Meals on Wheels.
Businesses that fail to display kilojoule contents risk fines of up to $3,100 for an individual or $15,500 for corporations.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jill Hennessy
“It’s important people have all the information they need to make healthy, balanced food choices, and that’s what mandatory kilojoule labelling is all about.”
“Families are often dining out up to four times a week and sometimes eating meals they don’t know contain most of an adult’s daily kilojoule intake. We’re making sure they do.”
“Many major outlets have shown great enthusiasm and made the necessary changes. We’re working with many more to give them the tools and resources they need to meet their requirements.”