Response to Channel Seven Spotlight

6 September 2026

Attributed to Dr Duncan Craig, Director of Health, Trade and Regulatory Affairs:

Food processing plays an important role in keeping food safe, affordable and accessible for Australians. The term ultra-processed food groups together many different foods, including wholegrain breads, fibre-rich cereals and yoghurts. There is no scientific consensus around the term itself, and many experts do not consider it a reliable measure of whether a food is healthy.

Australia has strong rules for food labelling and marketing. The Health Star Rating system helps consumers make informed choices and encourages manufacturers to reduce sugar, salt and saturated fat in their products. The best path to improved public health outcomes is through practical, evidence-based nutrition advice and continued collaboration between government, health experts and food manufacturers.