3 December 2009

2 minute read

Oceania

Minister Kelly said the new legislation would also help encourage support for the State’s beef producers – and ensure appropriate recognition of their quality product.

“Consumers have been concerned about the problem of inaccurate or deceptive beef labelling for decades,” he said. “The variability in beef eating quality impacts on consumer confidence - to the detriment of the retail beef market, and ultimately, our valuable beef industry."

He said that people should be able to purchase the quality of beef they are looking for at a price that matches the quality.

“It is only fair that the best quality beef commands a premium price and that beef sourced froman older cow is cheaper.”

In many cases retailers already have information about the quality of their beef, although this information is often not suitable for consumers and is not generally made available to consumers.

“These are the reasons why the Government supported the Food Amendment (Beef Labelling) Bill 2009 as introduced by Richard Torbay MP,” Country Labour Member of Legislative Council, Tony Catanzariti said.

“Once again NSW is taking the lead in pushing for progress on national policy,” he said. “The Government congratulates Mr Torbay on the passage of this legislation and his extensive consultation with all sections of the industry on these issues."

“Mr Torbay’s bill will provide consumers with a more reliable and consistent description of beef.”

Minister Kelly said the beef industry and retailers will have an opportunity to be involved in the development and implementation of this initiative, with State Government support.

The Government also supports the beef industry’s proposal to provide an update on developments regarding the new arrangements to the Primary Industries Ministerial Council next year.

TheCattleSite News Desk