If you sell honey in Western Australia, whether through a market stall, cafe, shop, or online store, it’s essential to follow the legal requirements for labeling. These rules apply to everyone, regardless of where the honey is packed, and are designed to protect consumers and ensure transparency across the food industry.

Why Are Labels Important?

Labels provide vital information to customers about the product they’re buying. Accurate and compliant labeling helps:

• Build trust with your customers.
• Ensure food safety and traceability.
• Meet legal requirements to avoid fines or penalties.

The Legal Requirements for Honey Labels

Under Australian food law, any food product sold to the public must meet specific labeling standards. These include:

1. Product Name
   • Clearly state the name of the product. For honey, this means labeling it as “honey” or specifying the type, such as “Jarrah Honey” or “Wildflower Honey.”
2. Ingredients List
   • If your honey contains additives or blends (e.g., infused with other ingredients), you must list all ingredients in descending order by weight.
   • Pure honey does not require an ingredients list.
3. Net Weight
   • Clearly display the weight of the honey in the jar or container (e.g., “500g”).
   • The weight must be accurate, and the measurement must comply with Australian legal metrology standards.
4. Business Name and Address
   • Include the name of the packer or seller and their physical address. A post office box is not sufficient.
   • This allows traceability in case of any issues.
5. Country of Origin
   • Clearly state where the honey was produced. For example, “Product of Australia” or “Made in Western Australia.”
   • Use the Australian Country of Origin Labeling (CoOL) standard if applicable.
6. Date Marking
   • Add a “best before” date. While honey has a long shelf life, this is still a legal requirement.
7. Nutritional Information Panel (NIP)
   • A nutritional information panel is mandatory unless your honey is sold directly to the end consumer without prepackaging (e.g., scooping honey into a jar at a market).
   • The panel should include energy, protein, fat, carbohydrates, sugars, and sodium per serving and per 100g.
8. Allergen Information
   • Declare any allergens if applicable. While honey is naturally allergen-free, cross-contamination risks in the packing process should be disclosed if present. This is more relevant for infused honeys.
9. Lot Identification
   • Include a batch or lot number to help identify the product in case of recalls or quality issues.
10. Storage Instructions
    • If specific conditions are required to maintain the quality of the honey, such as “Store in a well sealed container or jar” these should be included.

Additional Rules for Food Sold in Cafes or Shops

If you pack honey for sale in your cafe or shop, the same labeling laws apply. Even if it’s a small operation, you are legally required to:

• Provide all the necessary information on a label.
• Ensure the label is legible, accurate, and attached to the container.

Weight-Specific Regulations

For honey sold in quantities greater than 100g, full compliance with the above requirements is mandatory. If you sell smaller portions, check for additional exemptions, but always prioritize transparency.

Adhering to the Standards

By following these labeling regulations, you not only ensure compliance with the law but also:

• Protect the reputation of Western Australian honey.
• Foster consumer confidence in your products.
• Avoid potential fines or disruptions to your business operations.

Whether you’re a small producer or a large-scale seller, adhering to these guidelines benefits everyone in the industry and strengthens the trust customers have in Western Australian honey.

For more detailed information, consult the Food Standards Code or contact your local regulatory authority. Together, let’s keep our honey industry thriving and transparent.