The Morrison Government continues to make it easier for Australians to eat well and reduce the risk of chronic health conditions linked to diets high in saturated fats, sodium and sugars.
Minister for Senior Australians and Aged Care Services, Richard Colbeck said the Government was working with food companies to reformulate products and improve the nutritional value of many common foods.
“The Healthy Food Partnership Reformulation Program is about improving overall population health and wellbeing,” Minister Colbeck said.
“The reformulation of food products helps all Australians to eat well and not unknowingly overdo the intake of salt, sugars and saturated fats, which can increase the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, some forms of cancer and type 2 diabetes.”
Food companies participating in the program will work towards reducing the levels of sodium, saturated fat or sugar in foods they manufacture, in line with the specific nutrient targets identified for certain food categories.
“The program will operate over four years to reach reformulation targets, giving food industry time to make any necessary changes to their products,” Minister Colbeck said.
The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend limiting intake of foods high in risk nutrients—salt, added sugars and saturated fat—while enjoying a wide variety of nutritious foods including vegetables, fruit, whole grains, lean meats and low fat dairy.
“More than a third of Australian’s energy intake is from discretionary foods high in saturated fats, sugars and/or salt and the reformulation program will support Australians to better follow the advice in the Australian Dietary Guidelines,” Minister Colbeck said.
The Government established the Healthy Food Partnership to improve the dietary habits of Australians by making healthier food choices easier and more accessible, and by raising awareness of appropriate food choices and portion sizes.
The Partnership is a non-regulatory, collaborative forum between the Australian Government, food industry bodies and public health groups which aims to tackle obesity, encourage healthy eating and empower food manufacturers to make positive changes to their products.
All food industry businesses are encouraged to participate in the Partnership Reformulation Program.
Further information about the Healthy Food Partnership is on the Department of Health website at www.health.gov.au/healthyfoodpartnership
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