The ACCC has initiated inquiries into the claims raised in the recent ABC Four Corners program Duped, in line with its usual practices regarding allegations about potentially material, misleading consumer conduct. 

ACCC Commissioner Luke Woodward said: “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.

“We know that consumers may be guided by non-price factors, including claims about the country of origin or supply chain, when choosing which food products to buy.”

Australia’s food standards agency has welcomed the ACCC initiating inquiries into claims raised on the recent ABC Four Corners program Duped.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) sets food standards for both countries which are enforced by national, state and territory food regulators.

The ACCC enforces the Australian Consumer Law, alongside state and territory consumer protection regulators, including specific laws regarding country of origin labelling for food.

The ACCC stated on Friday it was looking into Four Corners’ food claims.

When making the announcement, the ACCC emphasised the importance of consumer confidence in the truth and accuracy of food labelling, including claims about country of origin and supply chains.

The food standards FSANZ develops are designed to ensure the safety and suitability of food produced and sold in both countries. This includes requiring nutrition and ingredient information on packaged foods to support consumers to make dietary choices that suit their needs.

FSANZ CEO Dr Sandra Cuthbert said: “Consumers rightly expect food sold in Australia to meet our strong standards. 

“Ensuring people can trust the food they purchase and consume is so important for all those involved in the food regulation system.

“It is good to see the issues and alleged industry practices raised by Four Corners are being taken seriously by regulators,” she said.

“Australia is recognised both domestically and internationally for the quality, safety and integrity of its food supply and exports. 

“Consumer confidence in the claims made by food producers and manufacturers is vital to maintaining that trust here and abroad.

“Our food regulation system has a long history of protecting public health by ensuring our food supply is safe and responding quickly and effectively to food issues and risks,” said Dr Cuthbert.

“FSANZ will continue to work with regulators, industry and consumer representatives to support a safe, trusted and transparent food system.”