Huge change coming to traditional Aussie fish and chips after new laws introduced

A huge change will be coming to fish and chips shops around Australia after the government expanded a major food labelling law.

For the first time, hospitality venues will have to state the country of origin of seafood so consumers know exactly where their food comes from.

Restaurants that sell seafood, including local fish and chip takeaway venues, will be required to use a new labelling scheme on their menu: Australia (A), Internationally (I) or mixed (M).

While the country of origin food labelling law already applies to most products sold in retail stores, $1.6 million allocated in the 2022 Federal budget has allowed the government to expand the rule’s use.

Seafood Industry Australia CEO Veronica Papacosta said the industry has been waiting years for this change.

“It has been 15 years of campaigning,” Papacosta said.

“Consumers should have the right to make informed choices about the food they purchase and consume.

“With 62 per cent of seafood consumed in Australia being imported, it is imperative that consumers dining out have access to clear and accurate information about the origin of the seafood they are served.”

WA commerce minister Sue Ellery said the decision will allow customers to make a more informed decision about where they should spend their money.

“It has been a point of some contention, mainly because the restaurant industry is made up of lots and lots of small businesses,” Ellery said.

“I think the model takes that into account, and consumers have been saying for a considerable period of time they want more transparency.

“They want to make the choice about whether they’re prepared to spend the extra money or not.”