European Commission challenges Australia's proposed food rating system

The European Commission is intervening to protect European olive oil and table olive exports following a proposal by Food Standards Australia New Zealand to implement a mandatory front-of-pack Health Star Rating system.

Critics and European officials argue that the proposed rating algorithm may fail to accurately reflect the nutritional value and documented health benefits of olive oil. This regulatory shift poses a potential trade barrier for European producers, particularly for Greece, in a market that imported 42,272 tonnes of olive oil during the 2024–25 period.

The Commission has submitted formal comments to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and emphasized during bilateral meetings that technical regulations must remain proportionate and non-discriminatory. The EU is currently seeking alternative labeling solutions from Australia and New Zealand to avoid unnecessary obstacles to international trade.