USA Artificial Colour Ban

In April 2025, the U.S. announced a ban on certain artificial food dyes due to health concerns, particularly for children.

In April, the FDA, under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., identified Red No. 3, Red No. 40, Yellow Nos. 5 and 6, Blue Nos. 1 and 2, and Green No. 3, are common in processed snacks, drinks, breakfast cereals, and some beauty products.

Advocates argue these additives have no nutritional value and may cause harm. The FDA will work with manufacturers on a gradual phase-out and is exploring natural dye alternatives, recently approving three plant-based options, including ones from an algae base and a butterfly pea flower.

Some states, like West Virginia, are also introducing their bans, especially in schools. The U.S. move aligns with stricter regulations seen in the UK and EU, and a similar approach may follow in Australia. MSAC will be staying tuned for potential developments on this issue.

Alcohol Energy Labelling

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has approved Proposal P1059, introducing mandatory energy labelling on most packaged alcoholic beverages sold in Australia and New Zealand.

FSANZ led the change, with input from groups: Australian Grape & Wine, Dietitians Australia, and Cancer Council Australia. The review addressed that consumers often underestimate the energy content of alcoholic beverages. Evidence has shown the need to align alcoholic beverage labelling with dietary guidelines for consumer support and education, with the energy labelling on alcohol products in support of public health movements.  

The front of pack energy statement will include the below in the prescribed format table:

Energy Information

Servings per package: (insert number of servings)

Servings size: mL(insert number) – standard drinks

Quantity per serving

Quantity per 100mL
Energy
kJ (Cal)
kJ (Cal)

The mandated changes have been approved and will take effect 60 days from April 7 if no amendments are made by Food Ministers.

Our team can help update your product labels, from calculating energy content to artwork updates and claims review.

Health Star Rating and Nutrition Panel Submission Responses

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is reviewing the Health Star Rating (HSR) system and Nutrition Information Panel (NIP) to improve clarity, parallel integration, and support healthier food choices.

The aim is to align both systems for clearer, more consistent communication. The review report has been published.

This review, led by FSANZ with input from Australian and New Zealand food ministers, included stakeholder feedback from public health, consumer groups, academia, industry, and government.

HSR: FSANZ is considering mandatory implementation if the voluntary uptake target of 70% isn’t met by 14 November 2025. Key areas of focus include clearer graphics, public education efforts, and refining the rating algorithm.

NIP: Proposed updates aim to improve readability and consumer understanding, including possibly adding dietary fibre and added sugar. Additional discussion of the format to make the panel more effective was included.

Changes are expected in early 2026 and will consider public support, regulatory costs, and supporting evidence.

Need help updating your product labels? We offer support with energy calculations, artwork updates, and claims reviews. Contact us to get started.