Cider makers call on Government to fix farcical rules
29 Apr 2019
President of Cider Australia Sam Reid said the regulatory framework as it stands is holding back growth opportunities and making it difficult for consumers and producers to differentiate higher quality products in the marketplace.
“Cider producers must navigate a ridiculous situation whereby the Food Standards define cider as one thing and the Australian Tax Office defines cider using another definition and neither of these definitions include a minimum juice content, which every other country globally sees fit to include in their definitions”, Mr Reid said.
“The regulatory framework is certainly not ticking any of the boxes on why we have food standards in the first place, such as to ensure consumers can make informed choices and to promote consistency with international standards”, noted Mr Reid.
Cider Australia believes that without reform to regulatory requirements the cider sector will be faced with suboptimal levels of investment in orchards and cider processing infrastructure, employment, skills development and R&D.
“Cider Australia is doing all it can to drive integrity in the market and is exceptionally proud to have recently launched a trust mark that can be displayed on ciders made with 100% Australian grown fruit, but we need effective regulation to support these efforts”, said Mr Reid.
Cider Australia’s full proposal is outlined in the attached Position Statement on Cider Product Integrity.
www.cideraustralia.org.au
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About Cider Australia
Cider Australia is an independent, not-for-profit organisation funded by cider businesses and sponsors, established in 2012. It aims to build a sustainable cider category by undertaking activities that improve the quality of ciders produced and marketed in Australia. The organisation represents the interests of the cider industry to policy makers, calling for regulations and policies that support a diverse and evolving cider industry.
About the trust mark
Cider Australia has launched a 100% Australian Grown trust mark that can only be displayed on ciders made with 100% Australian grown fruit. This is an industry-led initiative that will reinforce the premium quality of Australian craft cider and drive integrity in the market. When you buy a cider with the 100% AUSTRALIAN GROWN trust mark, you are not only buying a premium product but also supporting Australian growers, Australian jobs and our local communities.
National cider conference
AusCider is the cider industry’s annual information exchange and networking event that connects cider producers, fruit growers, researchers, suppliers and other industry representatives from Australia and overseas. The Batlow CiderFest organised and ran the first seven conferences in Batlow, NSW. Cider Australia will now manage the event as it moves to major cider centres in other states. AusCider 2019 will be held in Hobart, Tasmania from 2-5 June. Tickets and conference details are now available at www.ticketebo.com.au/auscider2019
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
To interview Cider Australia spokespeople please contact Cider Australia executive officer Jane Anderson on 0434 559 759 or office@cideraustralia.org.au.
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