The Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is implementing a significant regulation that reshapes labelling standards for alcoholic beverages. Under the new regulation, alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content of more than 1.15% must carry a comprehensive energy declaration, including information such as the energy value per serving and per 100 ml, serving size, number of servings and standard drinks. This step aims to support consumers in making more informed choices when purchasing products.

The announcement stated that detailed rules have also been introduced regarding how declarations relating to sugar and carbohydrate content should be made. The aim is to make this information on the label both easy to understand and standardised. This will enable consumers to assess not only the alcohol content but also the calorie content and nutritional effects of the beverage more clearly. This regulation promotes a more transparent and responsible production process for producers, as well as supporting public health.

FSANZ announced that producers have been granted a three-year transition period for the implementation of the new rules. During this period, producers are expected to update their labels to comply with the new standards. This regulation responds to consumer expectations, particularly in today’s climate where healthy living trends are on the rise, and also encourages more open and honest information practices within the industry.