BRINGING BALANCE TO THE LION PORTFOLIO

Transcription

1 BRINGING BALANCE TO THE LION PORTFOLIO

2 FEBRUARY 2018

3 OUR GOODNESS PROMISE To live the best life possible, everyone needs to eat and drink well. Add a little physical activity and you ve got the perfect blend! Lion Dairy & Drinks (Lion) believes that our products can play an important part of a healthy, balanced diet, and have set out to make sure what we offer helps people to live better lives. Our Goodness Promise aims to celebrate the inherent goodness of our products, as well as bringing better balance to the Lion portfolio helping people across Australia and New Zealand enjoy more natural goodness every day. This guidebook outlines our beliefs and commitments to the way we develop, communicate and promote our dairy, juice and non-alcohol drinks, taking an honest look at where our products are at and setting some exciting goals for the future! 3

4 GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR OUR GOODNESS PROMISE Use scientifically-based nutrient criteria to define the Lion dairy, juice and non-alcohol drinks portfolio. Promote and advertise responsibly, with particular sensitivity to children and adolescents. Maintain the nutrient integrity of our dairy and juice products. Optimise the nutrient composition of our products, without compromising taste and safety. Provide choice to deliver to consumers needs and desires. Provide a workplace that encourages balanced choices and an active lifestyle. Provide simple, clear and transparent product information to help consumers make more informed choices. 4 Ensure our nutrition and health messages are accurate and based on the latest body of scientific evidence. Invest in research into technology, innovation and consumers needs to optimise product development and communication. Invest in consumer education to help promote responsible product choice, as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle. Provide responsible pack and serving sizes to meet different eating and drinking occasions, and to reduce the chance of excess energy intake.

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6 At Lion we believe in everyone having access to more NATURAL GOODNESS EVERYDAY, because... One in 10 Australian and New Zealand children are not having breakfast, every morning. Over 80% of Australians, as well as 40% of adults and 25% of children in New Zealand, are not getting their recommended daily serves of fruit, from whole fruit* alone. 90% of Australians don t get their recommended daily intake of dairy or alternatives, and more than 60% of New Zealanders don t get enough calcium. Over 60% of adults and 25% of children in Australia and New Zealand are overweight or obese. 35% of Australian s energy intake is coming from discretionary foods. * Excludes fruit juice and dried fruit

7 That dairy and juice is a great way to start the day. A small 125mL glass of fruit juice with no added sugar (fruit juice)* can help Australian children and adults achieve their recommended daily intake of fruit. That all afternoon snacks should be a protein-packed milk or yoghurt, or a low GI juice not confectionery or soft drink. In a world where the only drinks at the checkout are milk, water or juice. The best post-workout protein boost you can get is plain or flavoured milk. The best food and drink come from the farm or orchard. * To note, when we talk about fruit juice, we are referring to fruit juice with no added sugar 7

8 AT LION, WE COMMIT TO Offering choices that are better for you : Our first choice will be natural colours, flavours or sweeteners. We will reduce added sugars and sodium (salt), as well as fat across our portfolio, and will never add artificial trans-fats as an ingredient. We will not use any artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners, added fructose, or coffee, caffeine and other energy ingredients in our children s products. Making it easy for all to make good choices: By putting healthier products at the front of store where they are easy to find. By making sure that our nutrition and product information is easy to see and understand. By ensuring our products come in responsible pack and serving sizes. Making Australian and New Zealand Made our first choice, which means: We will aim to deliver Australian and New Zealand Made fresh dairy products, from dairy farmers in Australia and New Zealand. We will aim to source the fruit and vegetables for our juices from Australian growers.

9 We re proud to say We offer a balanced portfolio of products that make a significant contribution to the nutrition, health and wellbeing of Australians and New Zealanders. Our milks, yoghurts and cheeses provide the goodness of calcium. Our fruit juices are a source of vitamin C. 9

10 NUTRIENT CRITERIA... Lion has produced specific nutrient criteria to help guide the development of our products and communication, based upon local and international scientific and government standards, and the science for healthy eating. The nutrient criteria have been independently reviewed and approved by scientific experts at the CSIRO and Deakin University. Each year, since Our Goodness Promise was launched in 2014, these criteria have been assessed to validate their currency and relevancy. The nutrient criteria have been designed to optimise the nutrient integrity of our products, without compromising taste and safety. THE THREE CATEGORIES ARE: 1. BEST FOR YOU These products can be consumed every day because they have lower levels of fat, sugars, sodium and energy; the goodness of dairy or fruit; and, may contain a beneficial ingredient like plant sterols or probiotics. 10

11 2. GOOD FOR YOU These products can be enjoyed every day in balance, because they contain energy, fat, sugars and sodium at levels higher than best for you products. 3. TREAT FOR YOU These products can be enjoyed every day in small amounts, keeping within a balanced diet, because they have higher levels of fat, sugars or sodium. 11

12 PORTFOLIO AUDIT We ve audited the Lion Dairy & Drinks portfolio (dairy, juice and non-alcohol drinks) to learn where our products fall. Audit results in 2014 * : Audit results at end of 2017 * : 26% BEST FOR YOU 44% GOOD FOR YOU 30% TREAT FOR YOU 22% BEST FOR YOU 54% GOOD FOR YOU 24% TREAT FOR YOU *Our audit results are based on Lion Dairy and Drinks internal sales volume data. Audit excludes cream as we are limited by the definition in the Food Standards Code, which states cream must contain a minimum of 35% fat. Lion will continue to monitor its cream portfolio. 12

13 Our Goals by 2019: 30% BEST FOR YOU 50% GOOD FOR YOU 20% TREAT FOR YOU 30% BEST FOR YOU 20% TREAT FOR YOU 50% GOOD FOR YOU 13

14 Our Business TARGETS and what we are doing to improve 14

15 Life is better when it s balanced, so we have set ourselves some targets to help us provide a portfolio of products to meet the health and nutrition needs of our consumers. Our intent is to provide product options and transparency of information to help people balance their diet every day, whilst still having a little fun and indulgent goodness! 15

16 Lion Dairy & Drinks TARGETS 80% of our product portfolio volume will meet the BEST and GOOD FOR YOU criteria by REDUCE ADDED SUGARS AND SODIUM, AS WELL AS FAT Reduce added SUGARS across the portfolio by 10% by 2019 Reduce added SODIUM in our cheese by 5% by 2019 Reduce FAT in our treat category by 10% by INNOVATE FOR BALANCE 80% of innovation projects will be in the BEST and GOOD FOR YOU categories. MAKE SMALLER PACK SIZES AVAILABLE ACROSS THE BOARD DAIRY AND JUICE WILL REMAIN OUR NUTRIENT POWERHOUSES All of our dairy products will remain a source of calcium All of our juices will remain a source of vitamin C. Smaller pack formats will be available in all categories by

17 LOOKING AFTER OUR CHILDREN All of our children s products: will meet the best and good for you criteria by 2019 will be free from artificial colours and flavours by 2018 will be free of added fructose by 2018 will remain free of artificial sweeteners will not contain any coffee, caffeine or other energy ingredients. CAFFEINE SHOULD BE APPROPRIATE FOR THE AUDIENCE We will not use coffee, caffeine or other energy ingredients in products for primary school children We will not recommend or promote coffee products to primary school children We will not recommend or promote coffee products containing more than 80mg of caffeine per serving to high schools We will voluntarily label the caffeine content of all coffee products We will not make flavoured dairy beverages containing more than 32mg of caffeine per 100mL or iced-coffee specific branded beverages with more than 260mg of caffeine per serving. NO ADDED ARTIFICIAL TRANS FATS We will continue to not add artificial trans-fats as an ingredient. PROVIDE EASIER TO UNDERSTAND NUTRITION AND PRODUCT INFORMATION Nutrition and product information will be enhanced by 2019, including the identification of natural versus added ingredients 100% of our applicable retail portfolio will display the Health Star Rating (HSR) front of pack labelling system by

18 POSITION STATEMENTS 18

19 The following pages outline our position on: THE NATURAL GOODNESS OF DAIRY AND FRUIT JUICE SUGARS SWEETENERS FAT AND ARTIFICIAL TRANS-FATS SALT COFFEE, CAFFEINE, OTHER ENERGY INGREDIENTS AND ENERGY DRINKS COLOURS & FLAVOURS PACK AND SERVING SIZE CONSUMER FRIENDLY PRODUCT INFORMATION CHILDREN S NUTRITION For further detail please contact nutrition@lionco.com 19

20 THE NATURAL GOODNESS OF DAIRY AND FRUIT JUICE We commit to providing a balanced portfolio of nutritious products that make a significant contribution to the nutrient intake of Australians and New Zealanders. Current research shows: More than 80% of Australians, as well as 40% of adults and 25% of children in New Zealand are not getting their recommended daily serves of fruit, from whole fruit* alone. 90% of Australians don t get their recommended daily intake of dairy or alternatives, and more than 60% of New Zealanders don t get enough calcium. We ll ensure that dairy and fruit juice with no added sugar (fruit juice) remain nutrient powerhouses to help Australians and New Zealanders achieve their dietary recommendations. We are committed to promoting the nutritious role dairy and fruit juice can play in a healthy, balanced diet and active lifestyle. We will maintain and enhance the nutrient density of our products, with our dairy products being at least a source of calcium, and our fruit juice products being at least a source of vitamin C. We will label our products appropriately, and communicate nutrition messages clearly and appropriately, to help consumers to make more informed choices about the nutrient quality of our products as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle. * excludes fruit juice and dried fruit 20

21 NATURAL GOODNESS... UNDERSTANDING DAIRY AND JUICE GOODNESS The evidence suggests the health of Australians and New Zealanders could benefit from including dairy and fruit juice, as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle, as well as decreasing the intake of discretionary foods. Dairy The most recent Australian Health Survey (2011/2012) found that Australians consume on average only 1.5 serves of dairy products or alternatives a day well below the recommended intake of around 3 serves a day (depending on age and gender). There is also evidence that many people are not meeting their recommended daily intake of calcium. In Australia, 73% of females and 51% of males (aged >2years), do not meet their recommended intakes of calcium each day in New Zealand, it s more than 60% of children and adults! Dairy provides a unique package of eight essential nutrients, including high quality protein that contains all of the essential amino acids needed by the body. Milk in particular, is the number one source of calcium in the Australian and New Zealand diet. It is also the largest source of vitamin B12, riboflavin (vitamin B2), phosphorus and potassium in the Australian diet, as well as providing iodine, magnesium and zinc. The Australian Dietary Guidelines state that consumption of milk, cheese and yoghurt is associated with reduced risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and colorectal cancer. Dairy foods are also associated with healthy weight management and can play a positive role in sport and exercise performance. Fruit juice The Australian Dietary Guidelines reference a small 125mL glass of fruit juice (with no added sugar) can count as an occasional serve of fruit. We need around two serves of fruit a day. The 2015 CSIRO re-analysis of the 2011/12 Australian National Nutrition Survey (a component of the Australian Health Survey), found that more than 80% of Australians are not getting their recommended serves of fruit from whole fruit alone*. When fruit juice is counted towards a serve of fruit, the percentage of Australians reaching their daily fruit serve target doubles (compared to whole fruit alone), and in some instances increases by up to five times. The CSIRO re-analysis also found that consumers of fruit juice have a better diet quality than non-consumers. Fruit juice provides valuable nutrients, contributing about 60% of daily vitamin C intakes, and significant amounts of folate (16%), and potassium (14%), to the diet of juice consumers. Fruit juice contributed only 1% of dietary energy and 3.5% of total sugar intake, among all Australians. In comparison, discretionary foods contribute 35% to total energy. * excludes fruit juice and dried fruit COMMITMENTS --We will maintain the nutrient density of dairy and fruit juice, so they continue to make a significant nutrient contribution to the diet of Australians and New Zealanders --We will responsibly communicate with consumers about the nutrient benefits of dairy and fruit juice, as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle. 21

22 SUGARS We commit to providing a balanced portfolio of products that minimises added sugars, while maintaining their nutrient integrity. Our commitment to limit added sugars is based on advice from leading local and international health authorities, such as the World Health Organisation, the Australian Dietary Guidelines the New Zealand Food and Nutrition Guidelines. The current scientific evidence supports the inclusion of the natural sugars found in milk (lactose) and fruit (fructose, glucose and sucrose), as part of a healthy balanced diet. The evidence for the harmful effects of fructose, particularly when found naturally in whole foods and consumed in moderate amounts, is not scientifically substantiated we continue to monitor and evaluate the science. We will educate consumers on the role of sugar as part of a balanced diet, through our product labels and education resources. 22

23 SUGARS... UNDERSTANDING SUGARS Sugars are increasingly criticised in the media, by public health organisations and health professionals, most commonly for providing excess calories in non-nutrient dense foods. Sugars are a form of carbohydrate, providing energy for your muscles, brain and nervous system to function. Sugars can be naturally present in some foods or may be added to others. Milk and fruit both contain sugars which are naturally present, such as lactose (milk) and fructose (fruit). As a rule of thumb, food and drinks with naturally occurring sugars tend to come bundled with other positive nutrients or benefits. For example, dairy with naturally occurring sugars tends to have a low glycaemic index (GI) which is of benefit to blood glucose (sugar) control and also provides other essential nutrients such as protein, calcium and B-vitamins. Fruit juice has a low-medium GI, and provides other nutrients such as vitamin C, folate and potassium. All sugars (no matter if they are added or natural) provide the same amount of energy (kilojoules or calories) as other forms of carbohydrates.

24 SUGARS... What are the recommendations on sugars? The World Health Organisation (WHO), the Australian Dietary Guidelines and the New Zealand Food and Nutrition Guidelines all recommend limiting added sugars. The WHO recommends less than 10% of total daily energy intake should come from free sugars (this equates to approximately 50g or 12 tsps. in total - based on an average adult daily energy intake of 8700kJ). The term free sugars according to WHO includes sugar added to foods, plus sugars naturally present in honey and fruit juices. Current intake of sugars According to the latest data, Australians consumed an average of 105g (26 tsps.) of total sugars per day. Just over half of this was free sugars (60g or 15 tsps.), with the majority coming from added sugars (52g or 13 tsps.). In New Zealand, total sugars intake is around 110g (27 tsps.) and it is estimated that around half is from added sugars. While sugar intakes in Australia have been declining in recent years, current intakes remain above recommended levels with Australians deriving an average of 10.9% of their dietary energy from free sugars, exceeding the WHO target of 10% of energy from free sugars (ABS, 2017).

25 SUGARS... Fructose Fructose is a type of sugar found in fruits, some vegetables and honey. Discussion about the negative impacts of fructose on health comes mainly from the United States where high fructose corn syrup is commonly used in soft drinks and processed foods. However, in Australia and New Zealand it is not commonly added to foods or beverages. Fructose is broken down differently in the body to other sugars. While other sugars are metabolised by all the cells in the body, fructose is broken down mainly in the liver. Evidence linking fructose consumption to adverse health outcomes is based on studies with animals or humans consuming very high amounts of added fructose. People rarely consume pure fructose. It s important to note, because fructose from whole fruit is accompanied by other sugars, as well as fibre and a range of other nutrients (including vitamin C and other antioxidants), it is thought to behave differently in the body to added fructose. Note: the fructose in fruit juice is typically not accompanied by dietary fibre, but fruit juice contains other beneficial nutrients such as vitamin C, folate and potassium. Sugar-sweetened beverages There is evidence that sugar-sweetened beverages, such as soft drinks, increase the risk of weight gain in children and adults, as was concluded by the evidence reviews for the Australian Dietary Guidelines and WHO. COMMITMENTS --We will reduce added sugars across our product portfolio by 10%, by We will not add fructose to our children s products --We will educate consumers on the natural sugars found in our fruit juice and dairy products, as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle, including the voluntary listing of added sugars in the nutrition information panel. 25

26 SWEETENERS We commit to providing a balanced portfolio of products to meet people s different health and wellness needs. We will invest in research and innovation to provide natural sugar alternatives as the first choice, and will not use artificial sweeteners in our products for children under 12 years. Current scientific evidence shows that permitted sweeteners are safe. Our recommendations, however, reflect consumer and public health concerns we will continue to monitor and evaluate the science. 26

27 SWEETENERS... UNDERSTANDING SWEETENERS Sugar alternatives or sweeteners are used in a range of food and drinks to add sweetness with little or no energy (kilojoules/ calories). Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has reviewed a wide range of sweeteners for their safety and application, and approved them for use in Australia and New Zealand. Health benefits There is insufficient scientific evidence to determine if sweeteners benefit body weight or blood sugar levels. However, we do know that if sweeteners replace added sugar, it may reduce the overall amount of energy in a product. This may assist weight loss and maintenance, as long as consumers do not compensate for the amount of energy reduced. A number of sweeteners are also associated with a decreased risk of dental cavities or tooth erosion. Sa fety Sugar alcohol sweeteners (e.g. xylitol, sorbitol), are recommended at the minimum levels only, due to their gastrointestinal side effects. More information on the levels that are permitted in Australia and New Zealand can be found in the Australian New Zealand Food Standards Code. Limited scientific evidence is available on children and sweeteners. Most Australian school canteen criteria do not allow artificially sweetened products. Likewise, a number of public health bodies do not recommend artificial sweeteners due to the lack of evidence on the safety in children. There s also concern that artificially sweetened beverages may replace more nutritious drinks, like milk and juice. These conflicting public health messages are causing consumers to question the safety of artificial sweeteners. COMMITMENTS --We will continue to manufacture products for children under 12 years that are free of artificial sweeteners. Recent reviews by health bodies, including FSANZ, the European Food Safety Authority and the US Food and Drug Administration, found approved natural and artificial sweeteners safe at their respective Acceptable Daily Intakes levels.

28 FAT AND ARTIFICIAL TRANS-FATS We commit to providing a balanced portfolio of products with fat levels appropriate for consumers of different life-stages. Our fat and trans-fats targets are based on advice from leading international and national authorities, such as the World Health Organisation. They aim to help people achieve no more than 30% of their total daily energy from fat and work towards the elimination of industrial trans-fats from the diet. We will monitor the science on saturated fat in dairy, as a growing body of evidence suggests that not all types of saturated fats have a negative health effect and that the saturated fat in dairy may have a neutral or potentially beneficial effect. We will also continue not to add artificial trans-fats as an ingredient to any of our products. 28

29 FATS... UNDERSTANDING FATS Total fats Fat is an important part of a healthy diet, providing essential fatty acids and fat soluble vitamins. Dietary Guidelines from the World Health Organisation (WHO), Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and New Zealand Health Ministry (NZHM) recommend restricting total fat intake to between 20-30% of a person s daily energy intake. However, there appears to be a shift in focus from restricting total fat, to the importance of the type of fat. For example, emerging evidence is showing a neutral or potentially beneficial association between dairy fat and chronic disease (except cancer, where the evidence is varied). Conversely, artificial trans-fats are produced during food processing and are not naturally present in foods. The WHO and the Australian Heart Foundation therefore recommend avoiding their use. A number of regions (including Denmark and some states within America) are also taking regulatory action to remove artificial trans-fats from their food supply. COMMITMENTS --We will reduce total fat in our treat products by 10%, by We will continue to not add artificial trans-fats as an ingredient to our products. Saturated fats Due to the assumption that all saturated fats are associated with cardiovascular disease, the WHO, NHMRC and NZHM recommend an intake of less than 10% of a person s daily energy intake. The Australian and New Zealand Dietary Guidelines also recommend people over two years of age choose mostly reduced-fat dairy. A growing body of scientific evidence, however, shows no link (or possibly a beneficial link) between the fat in dairy and the overall risk of cardiovascular disease. Our position on fats will not address saturated fat individually as the proportion of saturated fat to total fat in dairy remains constant (i.e. reducing total fat will reduce saturated fat). Tra ns -fats Due to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, public health bodies recommend limiting daily intake of trans-fats to less than 1% of a person s daily energy intake or as low as possible. Currently, the median intake of trans-fats in Australia and New Zealand are % of total daily energy intake. Trace amounts of ruminant (meaning, sheep or cow) trans-fats are found naturally in dairy. The WHO acknowledges that ruminant trans-fats can t be removed entirely from the diet, but due to the low intake in most populations, they aren t considered a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This is supported by a 2014 scientific literature review (meta-analysis) that found there was no relationship between low intakes of ruminant trans-fats and cardiovascular risk factors. 29

30 SALT We commit to providing a balanced portfolio of products with minimal added sodium (salt) content, while maintaining the nutrient integrity and safety of the product. Our commitment to limiting added sodium is based on advice from leading health authorities, such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Australian Dietary Guidelines and the New Zealand Food and Nutrition Guidelines. We will offer lower sodium cheeses, and will take into consideration any sodium recommendations produced by the Government and Industry Healthy Food Partnership, relevant to our cheese categories. We will explore ways to reduce sodium, while maintaining the safety and taste of our products. 30

31 SALT... UNDERSTANDING SODIUM (SALT) Salt is a mineral found naturally in many foods and beverages and is made up of two essential elements, sodium and chloride. Salt can also be added to foods to enhance flavour and act as a preservative. Around 75% of the sodium in our diet comes from processed foods. The body needs sodium for a variety of essential functions, such as maintaining water balance, blood pressure, and muscle and nerve function. However, almost one in three adults in Australia and one in six adults in New Zealand have high blood pressure, and there is increasing concern about the effect of a high dietary salt intake on blood pressure and cardiovascular risk. A recent study showed that Australians consume around twice the WHO recommended daily salt intake. There s also concern that children are consuming the same amount of sodium as adults. Adults in Australian and New Zealand should consume no more than 2,300mg of sodium per day. This equates to just over 1 teaspoon, or 6 grams of salt. The WHO suggests that to prevent chronic disease adults should consume less than 1,600mg of sodium, or under 1 teaspoon (<5g) of salt, per day. In Australia, the Food Health Dialogue established sodium reformulation targets for a number of food and beverage products, including cheese. In 2013, Lion supported these targets for our relevant cheese categories. This work is now being managed within the Government and Industry Healthy Food Partnership, and we will consider any future sodium recommendations produced. COMMITMENTS --We will reduce added sodium across our cheese portfolio by 5%, by 2019 without affecting taste or safety. 31

32 COFFEE, CAFFEINE, OTHER ENERGY INGREDIENTS AND ENERGY DRINKS We commit to providing a balanced portfolio of products that enables people to consume coffee, caffeine and other energy ingredients responsibly. We will also voluntarily label the caffeine content of all coffee products. We ll use energy ingredients in appropriate adult products only, at a minimal level to deliver a health effect. We ll abide by the school canteen criteria for coffee, caffeine and other energy ingredients, in addition to not using these ingredients in products for children under 12. We ll commit to not producing adult dairy beverages with more than 32mg of caffeine per 100mL, or iced-coffee specific branded beverages with more than 260mg caffeine per serving. Our commitments are based on balancing current scientific opinion with consumer preferences, always ensuring appropriate on pack product information is provided to our consumers. 32

33 CAFFEINE... UNDERSTANDING COFFEE, CAFFEINE, ENERGY INGREDIENTS AND ENERGY DRINKS Caffeine occurs naturally in foods such as coffee, tea, cocoa and guarana, and can also be added to food and beverages, such as cola-type soft drinks and energy drinks. The main dietary sources of caffeine for adults in Australia and New Zealand are tea and coffee. For Australian children the main sources are chocolate (2-3yrs), soft drinks (4-13yrs) and coffee (14-18yrs) and for children in New Zealand the major contributors are tea, soft drink, biscuits and coffee Caffeine has a long history as a safe mild stimulant. Acting on the brain and nervous system, it increases the speed of messages to and from the brain, making the user feel more alert and awake. Currently, there s no upper limit for caffeine intake in Australia or New Zealand. Individual sensitivity to caffeine varies. In 2015, the European Food Safety Authority Scientific Opinion on the Safety of Caffeine, provided advice on a safe daily intake level for caffeine from all sources for the general population and any specific subgroups: --A single dose of up to 200mg caffeine is safe for adults, and unlikely to cause changes in blood pressure, hydration, exercise or alcohol intoxication --A habitual daily caffeine intake of up to 400mg is also considered safe for adults except for pregnant women. --Habitual, daily caffeine intakes of up to 200mg per day by pregnant women or lactating women are considered safe. --For children and adolescents there is insufficient evidence with the authors concluding that 3mg per kg of body weight daily is safe for this age group. Community concerns about caffeinated and energy products, in particular their effects on children, continues. In Australia, there is clear regulation around the use of caffeine in energy drinks and cola-type beverages. Clear labelling requirements are associated with both. There are however, no specific regulations in the Food Standards Code in regards to the caffeine content of coffee-containing dairy beverages for adults, hence why we have developed our voluntary commitments. COMMITMENTS --We will abide by national and state school canteen criteria for coffee, coffee-style products and energy ingredients/ drinks, in addition: We will not use coffee, caffeine or other energy ingredients in children s specific products (under the age of 12 years). We will not recommend or promote coffee products to children under the age of 12 (primary school). We will not recommend or promote coffee products with more than 80mg of caffeine per serving to adolescents years old (high school). --We will voluntarily label the caffeine content of all coffee products, with additional labelling requirements for products with higher caffeine levels. --We won t produce dairy beverages containing more than 32mg of caffeine per 100mL (equivalent concentration to a cup of instant coffee) or iced-coffee specific branded beverages with more than 260mg of caffeine per serving. --We will follow the Australian Food and Grocery Council s Guiding Principles for Serving Size refer to the Pack and Serving Size Position for further detail. --<200mg/single serving is safe when consumed less than two hours prior to physical exercise. 33

34 COLOURS & FLAVOURS We commit to providing a balanced portfolio of products to meet people s health and wellness needs. Current scientific evidence supports the safety of permitted colours and flavours. Our commitments, however, reflect current consumer and public health concerns we will continue to monitor and evaluate the science. We will invest in research and innovation to provide natural alternatives as the first choice. We will not use artificial colours or flavours in our products for children under the age of

35 COLOURS & FLAVOURS... UNDERSTANDING COLOURS & FLAVOURS Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has reviewed a number of colours and flavours for their safety and application, and approved them for use in Australia and New Zealand. Colours Artificial food colours (AFCs), in particular, have come under scrutiny for their effect on children s behaviour. A 2012 scientific literature review (meta-analysis) reported the evidence on AFCs is weak but too substantial to dismiss. It is also asserted that AFCs as part of a balanced diet don t pose a safety concern for children but some additives can cause behavioural changes and, if so, children should avoid them. There s limited studies on the safety of colours in adults. Public health and government bodies state that for most adults, food containing AFCs are safe as part of a healthy, varied diet. However, there are some extremely rare cases where sensitive individuals may react to AFCs and should avoid eating them. Consumer & public health concern Consumers are concerned about food additives and as a result are looking for products that are natural or with clean labels. The food industry is responding to these concerns, with a number of manufacturers committing to the removal of artificial colours and flavours from their portfolio. Major retailers are also moving towards ranging products with no artificial flavours and colours. Public health bodies, including the Food Intolerance Network, Centre for Science in the Public Interest and the UK Food Standards Agency, support removing artificial colours, and in Europe all foods containing six specific artificial colours additives (which were linked to hyperactivity in children in a controversial 2007 study) must carry a warning statement. COMMITMENTS --We will commit to not using artificial colours or flavours in products targeting children under the age of 12 years, by For adults, our first choice will be natural colours or flavours. Flavours There are minimal studies on flavours and their safety in both children and adults.

36 PACK AND SERVING SIZE We commit to providing a balanced portfolio of products with responsible pack and serving sizes to meet people s energy and nutrition needs and different eating occasions to reduce the chance of excess energy intake. These recommendations are based on advice from leading international and national authorities, such as the Australian Dietary Guidelines and the New Zealand Food and Nutrition Guidelines, to help achieve and maintain a healthy weight. We commit to making smaller pack sizes available across our portfolio. We will continue to follow the Australian Food and Grocery Council s Guiding Principles for Serving Size, whereby a 600mL beverage or less is a single serving, and greater than 600mL is a bulk pack. We will have regard for any pack and serving size recommendations or portion guidance tools from the Government and Industry Healthy Food Partnership. 36

37 PACK AND SERVING SIZE... UNDERSTANDING PACK AND SERVING SIZE With the rising rates of obesity, and increasing levels of scientific evidence linking increased portion size with overconsumption of energy and excess body weight, the Australian Dietary Guidelines and the New Zealand Food and Nutrition Guidelines have made recommendations to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. These dietary and lifestyle modifications include portion size. Appropriate portion sizes are important for energy balance but people often don t know how much energy they need in a day, what constitutes an appropriate amount to eat and drink, or how to read a product label. As a result, many people are unaware that they re over-consuming energy or kilojoules/calories. School canteen criteria have led the way in portion control, recommending maximum pack sizes for products, including flavoured milk and juices. The food industry has a responsibility to offer consumers a range of individual pack sizes that help to balance nutrient and energy density, along with communication on what is a serving size. This needs to be accompanied by education on the amount of energy a person should consume each day, along with how much the body burns or uses. The Government and Industry Healthy Food Partnership are actively considering pack and serving size, along with portion guidance tools to help consumers better manage their dietary intake increasing their intake of every day food and drinks, and reducing discretionary products. COMMITMENTS --We will ensure all of our best for you products do not exceed 10% of an adult s average daily energy intake (based on 8700kJ), per serving. --We will ensure our products come in appropriate pack and serving sizes, with smaller pack sizes available across the portfolio, by We will improve our communication, explaining what is an individual pack and serving size, to better help inform and educate consumers. 37

38 CONSUMER FRIENDLY PRODUCT INFORMATION We commit to providing a balanced portfolio of products with easy-to-use and understand product nutrition information to help consumers make more informed choices. We commit to advertising responsibly, with particular sensitivity to children and adolescents, abiding by the Australian Food and Grocery Council s Responsible Marketing to Children s Initiative. We will base our nutrition and health messages on the latest scientific evidence and continue to research the best ways to educate our consumers on balancing their diet and lifestyle through the products they consume. 38

39 PRODUCT INFORMATION... UNDERSTANDING PRODUCT INFORMATION Product labels provide information to help consumers with their food and beverage choices, outlining what s in a product and how to store it safely. This information is regulated in Australia and New Zealand by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ). Consumer laws also ensure product labels don t mislead, deceive or misinform the consumer. According to a 2011 systematic review on labelling, the prevalence of self-reported label use is generally high, however there is mixed evidence on the ease of interpreting labels. Personal characteristics associated with a higher understanding of labels included frequent use, youth, higher education, motivation and higher income. Barriers to using and understanding food labels included lack of motivation, lack of time, a sense of mistrust and confusion by elements such as what is a serving, as well as added and inherent nutrients. Research shows that consumers pay most attention to nutrients they wish to avoid, for example sugars, fat and energy (kilojoules or calories). The use of colours, listing product serving sizes in household terms and labelling added nutrients (such as added sugars) may also assist consumers with the interpretation of nutrition information. Locally and internationally, government, consumer groups and industry have implemented a variety of schemes to improve the availability and comprehension of product information, either on or beyond the product label. Lion Dairy & Drinks (Lion) has invested in consumer research to understand how to improve the product nutrition information. These findings inform our approach to both on pack and off-pack communication, such as voluntarily labelling the caffeine content of our coffeecontaining products. The voluntary government Health Star Rating (HSR) front of pack labelling system (introduced in 2014), is an example of the food industry working collaboratively with government and health organisations to help people make more informed, healthier product choices. Lion is proud to be adopting the HSR system on our applicable retail portfolio across Australia and New Zealand, by The HSR system is similar to energy ratings used on white goods and aims to give consumers at-a-glance nutrition information by indicating the overall healthiness or energy content of a product within its food or beverage category, e.g. yoghurt with yoghurt; milk with milk. COMMITMENTS --100% of our applicable retail portfolio will display the Health Star Rating front of pack labelling system by Nutrition and product information will be enhanced by 2019, including the identification of natural versus added ingredients, such as added sugars. 39

40 CHILDHOOD NUTRITION (6 MONTHS to 12 YEARS) We commit to providing a balanced portfolio of products to help with children s healthy growth and development. Our commitments are based on advice from leading international and national authorities, such as the World Health Organisation, the Australian Dietary Guidelines, the New Zealand Food and Nutrition Guidelines and Australian and New Zealand national and state-based school canteen policies and guidelines. We will maintain the nutrient integrity of our children s products, providing appropriate levels of energy, fat, sugar and salt. We won t use any artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners, added fructose, or coffee, caffeine or other energy ingredients in our products for children under 12 years. We commit to advertising responsibly to children, following the Australian Food and Grocery Council s Responsible Children s Marketing Initiative. 40

41 CHILDHOOD NUTRITION... UNDERSTANDING CHILDREN S NUTRITION Childhood is a time of rapid growth and development, and optimal nutrition is essential. Children need fat and carbohydrates for energy, protein for muscle growth and repair, calcium and vitamin D for growing bones and teeth, iron for proper blood cell formation and zinc for optimal physical development. Australians and New Zealanders are currently eating an excess of energy-dense and relatively nutrient-poor foods ( treats ), posing greater risk of lifestyle related disease. There is a growing awareness that a balanced diet can help reduce the risk of serious health problems later in life. As a result, nutrition criteria tailored to children, such as school canteen policies and criteria, have become more stringent. It is widely accepted that food companies can and should play an important role in promoting a healthy diet and lifestyle to children. COMMITMENTS All of our children s products will: --meet the Best and Good for you criteria by 2019: we will reduce added sugars across the portfolio by 10% by 2019 we will reduce added sodium in our cheese by 5% by 2019 we will reduce fat in our treat category by 10% by be free from artificial colours or flavours, by remain free of artificial sweeteners --be free of added fructose --provide pack and serving sizes for the different stages of childhood to reduce the chance of excess energy intake, by We will not use coffee, caffeine or other energy ingredients in products for children under the age of 12 (primary schools) (excluding chocolate and tea, but not tea-extract). 41

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