At a glance:
- Dairy products are a staple in many households.
- There are a variety of dairy manufacturers in the food market, and this diversity presents a challenge in identifying reliable and secure dairy suppliers.
- Read on to learn about dairy product labels and certifications for food safety.
Dairy products are a staple in many households, from milk and cheese to yoghurt and butter. However, it can be difficult to determine which dairy suppliers are safe and dependable with so many kinds of dairy products on the market. We’ve compiled this guide to help you comprehend dairy product labels and food safety certifications.
Dairy product labels and certifications for food safety:
Dairy Food Safety Victoria
Dairy Food Safety Victoria (DFSV) is the regulatory organisation in Victoria in charge of guaranteeing the safety and quality of dairy products. DFSV establishes strict guidelines for milk production, transportation, and processing. Products that meet these criteria are deemed safe for human consumption.
Australian Dairy Industry Council
The Australian Dairy Industry Council (ADIC) is the national organisation that represents Australia’s dairy producers, processors, and manufacturers. To establish and enforce food safety rules and standards, the ADIC collaborates closely with government authorities. By donating to the ADIC, you can ensure that your dairy products are produced in a safe and environmentally friendly manner.
Dairy Australia
Dairy food safety is a comprehensive programme ensuring dairy products are manufactured following the highest food safety requirements. The programme comprises regular testing and auditing of dairy farms, processing plants, and transporters to guarantee that food safety practices are followed.
Here are some state regulatory authorities:
- Dairy Food Safety Victoria
- NSW Food Authority
- Safe Food Queensland
- Tasmanian Dairy Industry Authority
- Dairy Safe South Australia
- WA Department of Health Food Unit
HACCP Certification
HACCP is an acronym that stands for Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points. This food safety certification identifies possible dangers in the manufacturing process and implements preventative actions to control them. A HACCP-certified product from an Australian food service has undergone extensive testing and meets stringent food safety criteria.
Australian Organic Certification (ACO)
The ACO certification ensures food is produced without synthetic fertilisers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This accreditation is vital for consumers who wish to ensure that their dairy products are produced sustainably and environmentally friendly.
Halal certified
For Muslim consumers who wish to know that the product they are purchasing is lawful under Islamic law, Halal certification is vital. The accreditation ensures the dairy product is produced from Halal-certified animals per Islamic rules.
Kosher-certified
Kosher certification is essential for Jewish consumers who want to know that their dairy product from food service in Australia complies with Jewish dietary restrictions. The certification ensures that the product is grown, processed, and packed in accordance with Jewish dietary regulations.
Australian Made and Owned
The Australian Made and Owned logo indicates that a product is manufactured or grown in Australia and that most of the manufacturing costs are incurred in Australia. This accreditation ensures that the product was manufactured under Australian standards, among the highest in the world.
Note: A product is referred to be ‘Australian manufactured’ or ‘made in Australia’ if it underwent its most recent significant alteration in Australia.
Conclusion
It should be noted that different certifications may apply to various dairy products. A yoghurt, for example, could be certified organic, whilst cheese could be certified under the Australian Made and Owned scheme. Always check the labels on your dairy products to see if they have any certifications.
Finally, understanding dairy product labels and certifications is critical for purchasing safe and sustainable dairy products. If you choose items certified under one or more of the aforementioned programs, you may be confident that your dairy products have been manufactured under high food safety standards.