Story perspectives

Australia to Mandate Health Star Rating on Packaged Foods

2/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Australia will mandate the Health Star Rating on packaged foods after years of voluntary uptake, 39%.
The Health Star Rating system, introduced in 2014, was co-designed with the food industry.
Health experts criticized its effectiveness, noting companies exploited the rating to market unhealthy products.
The government aims to draft legislation within a year.
Concerns persist about industry influence and the need for ongoing reviews of the rating algorithm.

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Story summary

Australia will mandate the Health Star Rating on packaged foods after years of voluntary uptake, 39%.
The Health Star Rating system, introduced in 2014, was co-designed with the food industry.
Health experts criticized its effectiveness, noting companies exploited the rating to market unhealthy products.
The government aims to draft legislation within a year.
Concerns persist about industry influence and the need for ongoing reviews of the rating algorithm.