Calls have been made for the federal government to update labelling regulations to distinguish meat and plant-based alternatives clearly.
Cattle Australia’s interim chief executive, Adam Coffey, said some alternative protein manufacturers had exploited the current labelling standards to trade off the reputation of Australia’s high-quality meat standards.
“Consumers should be able to eat the food they think they’re buying,” Mr Coffey said.
“Disguising plant-based products to look like meat can take that choice away from consumers.
Mr Coffey said the ALP promised to resolve this issue during the election. “Now, they must deliver. An extensive Senate inquiry led by Senator Susan McDonald recommended images of animals and terms such as ‘beef’ or ‘veal’ be reserved for the genuine article,” he said.
“This is about ensuring food labelling has integrity and shoppers know what they’re getting. You shouldn’t have to read the fine print to know if you’re buying beef.”
Mr Coffey said there was no reason for the government to delay updating regulations. Cattle Australia had expected to have labelling issues resolved in Anthony Albanese’s first year of government.
“There has been broad support across the Australian community for not just meat, but all food labelling to be accurate,” Mr Coffey said.
“Australia’s beef industry has spent decades building community trust as a healthy, clean, ethical and sustainable option. Alternative proteins simply haven’t proven themselves to many consumers, and they need to put in the work themselves.”
Further, Mr Coffey said some consumers needed to eat meat because of its nutrient-dense qualities.
“This is something alternative proteins cannot deliver,” he said.
“This should be an easy decision for the government, and Cattle Australia urges them to take swift action. The Senate inquiry has done the work; now it’s time to get on with the job.”
