The important distinctions between food labelling and food packaging requirements in food regulation

Inconsistencies in the imposition of labelling and packaging requirements for food products can be seen across various pieces of regulation. Under some regulatory schemes, the labelling criteria and mandatory disclosure of information relating to a food is contingent on whether the product is packaged or not. Under others, the connection between labelling and packaging requirements is non-existent. This article explores different issues arising for labelling obligations of packaged and unpackaged food products under the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code, the Country of Origin Food Labelling Information Standard, and the Trade Measurement Act.