Australia mandates health star ratings on nearly all packaged foods by 2025

Australia will soon require health ratings on nearly all packaged foods. The move makes the Health Star Rating (HSR) system compulsory after a decade of voluntary use. Currently, only 39% of products display the labels, despite strong public support for clearer food information. The HSR system was introduced in 2014 but remained optional for manufacturers. It rates foods from half a star to five stars, with higher scores indicating healthier options. However, uptake has been slow—far below the 70% target set for November 2025.

Under the new rules, Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) will require ratings on all packaged foods where a nutrition panel is already mandatory. This excludes special products like baby formula and alcohol. The change aims to expose thousands of low-scoring items that previously avoided displaying their ratings. Research shows seven in ten shoppers use the HSR system at least occasionally. Over 82% of Australians want the labels on all packaged goods to help make quick, informed choices. Experts remind consumers to compare only similar products, as ratings are calculated differently across food categories.

The mandatory HSR system will cover most packaged foods, pushing brands to display nutritional transparency. Shoppers will now see ratings on thousands of items that previously omitted them. The shift follows years of public demand for clearer food labelling.