Aussie health claims
This article was originally published in The Tan Sheet
Executive Summary
Food Standards Australia New Zealand seeks further comments on its proposed health and nutrition claims standard. FSANZ says the proposed standard will put in place a voluntary scheme to allow manufacturers to promote the health benefits of their products. The agency says it developed a system based on the two countries' policy guidance and considers "the overall composition of the food, which we are calling the nutrient profiling method." FSANZ developed an electronic calculator, available online, to allow a "quick and simple calculation of whether a food is eligible to carry a health claim." The calculation is based on salt, sugar and saturated fat content, among other criteria. Some pre-approved health claims include the link between calcium and enhanced bone density, and between folic acid and prevention of neural tube defects. The comment period closes May 16...