Australia and New Zealand food labeling (FSANZ): English label, PEAL allergens

One Food Standards Code for two countries

The Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code applies to food sold in both countries, including imported food. Standard 1.2.1 sets when food must carry a label and what information it gives, and all label information must be legible, prominent and in English. The label names the supplier in Australia or New Zealand with a business address, so imported food carries the importer's or distributor's details.

Country of origin labeling for food sold in Australia is not part of the Food Standards Code: it comes from the Country of Origin Food Labelling Information Standard 2016, made under Australian Consumer Law. Check origin wording with the Australian importer before printing.

Australia and New Zealand food label checklist

• All label information in English, legible and prominent
• Name and business address of the supplier in Australia or New Zealand
• Allergens in bold in the ingredient list, with plain-English names
• A separate "Contains" summary statement for allergens
• Country of origin label for Australia under the 2016 Information Standard
• Label agreed with the importer before shipping

Plain English Allergen Labelling (PEAL)

PEAL is set in Standard 1.2.3 and Schedule 9 of the Code. Allergens are declared with the required plain-English names, in bold, in the ingredient list, and again in a separate summary statement that begins with "Contains". The required names cover allergens such as milk, egg, peanut, soy, sesame, wheat, fish, crustacean, mollusc, lupin and named tree nuts.

PEAL started on 25 February 2021 with a three-year transition, and food labels have had to comply since 25 February 2024. Food packaged and labeled before that date could still be sold until 25 February 2026, when the five-year transition ended. Imported food is held to the same rule, so labels printed for other markets usually need an Australian and New Zealand version or sticker.