Soon supermarket and fast food chains across Victoria will start kilojoule labelling.
The Obesity Policy Coalition has welcomed the government’s move to implement the mandatory labelling.
“Providing kilojoule information at the point of sale is vital for empowering Victorian consumers to make healthier and more informed food choices,” OPC Executive Manager Jane Martin said.
“When clear information about the energy content of food is provided, along with education about the energy they need, it supports people to order menu items with fewer kilojoules.”
Research conducted around the introduction of kilojoule menu labelling in NSW showed that people ordered meals 15 per cent lower in kilojoules than before the system was introduced.
Martin said that as part of the new regulations, a supporting education campaign is also needed.
“Education is an essential element of this system as it helps consumers interpret the nutritional information provided and make the healthiest choice available,” Martin said.
“The OPC has been advocating for mandatory kilojoule labelling in Victoria for many years because we know that when supported by community education it is a very effective strategy.”
The introduction of kilojoule labelling in Victoria will bring the state in line with NSW, the ACT, South Australia and Queensland.
She added reducing overweight and obesity needs a comprehensive strategy and greater investment from the government.
