By Andrew Starke
The Foster’s Group has no immediate plans to follow the lead of rival Lion Nathan by adopting consumer health messages on its labels.
The beer giant supports labelling reform but remains unconvinced about the effectiveness of product health warnings.
Earlier this week Lion Nathan Australia issues a statement saying it had voluntarily agreed to adopt consumer health messages that promote responsible drinking choices on its liquor brands.
A recent review of Australian labelling regulation headed by former Health Minister, Dr Neal Blewett recommended ‘significant changes’ to these standards to ensure ongoing protection for consumers.
“We have read the report with interest,” a spokesperson for the Foster’s Group told TheShout. “We already include nutritional information on products which contain a specific claim (e.g. low carb, light), and we believe that where labelling reform can play a role in informing choice and educating consumers, it should be pursued.
“Where we remain unconvinced is the ineffectiveness of product health warnings in persuading those most at risk to modify behaviour.
“We’ll continue to review our own practices and the outcomes of subsequent research and reviews, but have no immediate plans to add warnings,” he said